Princess Ailys and Prince Aiden walk arm in arm into the gala, sister and brother Grayson looking both well done up with attire. Ailys is wearinga cobalt silk gown with a gold ribboned and white boned corset, while Aiden is wearing a flashy white jacket, a red undershirt, and matching pants with boots that give him at least an inch rise for the heel. Aiden guides walks along with his sister into the event, his sterling silver eyes set ahead and toward the evenings event. His expression is at least presentable, though he doesn't outshine his sister, who wears a heartfelt smile. Aiden looks over toward Ailys, "It seems we shall have a busy evening meeting people."

1 Igniseri scarlet phoenix guards, Apollis arrive, following Amarantha.

Drysi, a young shaman apprentice arrives, following Khanne.

Norwood has joined the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

4 Kennex corsairs, Serena, the charming Stormward lady-in-waiting arrive, following Vanora.

Margerie has joined the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Ian comes into the great hall, mostly watching his feet as he walks (although once he's out of the entryway, he looks up to look around). He's all dressed up in -- not just the boiled wool coat rather than the beat up, seedy looking leather one -- but the boiled wool coat with the FANCY buttons. It's clean and everything.

Grandt, House Leary man-at-arms arrives, following Fairen.

Marian gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Aiden gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Oaken, a massive Oakhaven bloodhound, Marigold, a cheeky pygmy goat, Marie, chef of Keaton Hall, 2 Novice Keaton Huntsmen arrive, following Reigna.

Vern, Reigna arrive, following Kael.

6 Thrax Guards arrives, following Caith.

Marian gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Nicia gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Felix gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Thesarin gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Aiden gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Cristoph gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Cassima gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

3 Armed Confessors arrives, following Alistair.

Nicia gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Marian comes walking into the party wearing an exquisite midnight gown that has diamonds shaped as tears arranged in the mesh to look the night sky over Arx. Her shoulders and hands are bare showing off the the fine scars that decorate this warrior's body. Tiny diamonds have been woven into her fiery red locks which tumble down, over her shoulders and down her back. Her polite mask is up this evening as she gives nods and soft murmured words to well wishes to seek to offer their sympathy to House Redrain. As soon as she gets past the mob, she looks for a quiet place to sit. If she catches her sister's eye, she will make sure that Monique is aware that Marian was able to make it.

Khanne gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Cassima gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Ailys picks up A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Rian slowly he steps into the room, dressed in a brand new tunic and with a pair of black pants, as he look around taking it all in, his colors are light purple with a gold trimming, as he moves towards the side of the room to watch, he is moving slowly trying to find his way and then he smiles at a few people, trying to act friendly in this strange event, and his fingers idly touching his side where his sword should be, but he left it home for once, and his scrowl is huge on his face.

Scribble, a Delicate Social Butterfly arrives, following Delilah.

Conker, the Ornery Red Squirrel, Dame Barkley, a chocolate tri beagle, Delilah arrive, following Joslyn.

Cristoph gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Aleksei gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Eirene is easily mistaken for a Lycene party-guest save the braids of silver and white hair nestled amongst the black. It's only when one looks at her face and the perpetual smirk that has drawn lines there that it's easy to notice her as the Lady Malvici. Her white gown is properly baring of tanned skin and her veil is sheer save the ornate beadwork adorning her.

Tikva and Ainsley are here in matching silks of gray and silver, he with a shining aeterna longcoat and her with glittering overskirts dazzled with a thousand beads. There is a slightly frenzied energy about Tikva, her smile very wide and bright as she grips Ainsley's arm. "This is going to be fabulous," is what she has to say as they approach.

Delilah gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Kael gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Felix gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Cassima has joined the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Ailys drops A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Khanne gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Joslyn gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

From the front of the room, near the stairs that lead up to the higher levels, Lord Corban Telmar stands, flanked by Lady Monique (right at his side) and Prince and Princess Ainsley and Tikva Grayson. As the guests arrive, Corban smiles to himself, looking over the crowd. He then raises his voice, going into Orator Mode.

"Thank you, each of you, for coming to the Glittering Gala. On behalf of Duke Arn Telmar and my co-hosts from Houses Grayson and Greenmarch, I welcome you to the Telmar Tower. Tonight, we celebrate the New Year and the generosity of Our Lady of Charity, Gild. We will begin the games shortly, but for now, please, take a favor, gather, and enjoy."

4 House Deepwood Guards arrives, following Samantha.

Ailys picks up A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Ailys drops A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Gwenna picks up A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Barely managing to contain her delight, Ianna sweeps into the Great Hall. She's dressed in a green silk gown with a wide band of embroidered ivy at the waist, her long auburn hair swept back, contained by tortoiseshell combs, a few ringlets left loose. She takes a long moment at the edge of the gathering to take it all in before making her way into the room proper.

Gwenna drops A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Apollis gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Eleanor gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Thesarin gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Fairen gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Caith gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Ianna picks up A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Ianna drops A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Derovai gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Eleanor gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Vanora gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Ainsley's attention is focused onto the Shining Lands diroama, his fingers rubbing idly over Tikva's hand where she grips his hand. Though he turns to look toward the others, when Corban and Monique start to address the gathered.

Rian picks up A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Rian drops A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Gwenna gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Eirene gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Kael gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Reigna gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Felicia gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Titania gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Norwood gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Margerie gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Silvio picks up A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Sorrel is already dancing when she arrives, ever light on her feet, and twirling about in a manner that makes her broad green skirts flare out dramatically. She meanders about the room to look at absolutely everything, beaming and looking delighted.

Silvio drops A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Samantha gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Sorrel gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Catalana gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Caith gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Delilah gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Aleksei gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Rian gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Marcos gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Silvio gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Felicia gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Ianna gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Luca arrives, following Margot.

1 Grayson Guardsmen have been dismissed.

Percephon has joined the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Valdemar gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Khanne has joined the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Ian has been here all of... what? A few minutes? Already, he's looking back at the door like he's considering fleeing for less civilized environs. He stands with his back to a wall and scans the room.

Apollis gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Gwenna has joined the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Amarantha gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Reigna has joined the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Leona has joined the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Margerie gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Kael has joined the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Saedrus arrives arm in arm with Aleksei. True to form the Whisper is dressed for the occasion-- quite literally taking the Glittering Gala for theme in a Lycene cut robe in midnight shades that glitters as the light touches the fabric from what must be a whole lot of crushed-- stones? Diamonds? Don't ask, just accept it's sparkly and he is clearly very happy with the finished product. With a brilliant smile he looks about the Telmar Great Hall, "it looks magnificent," he asides to the Archlector beside him. Evergreen eyes flit away then to find the hosts and hostess, and once he had Monique, Ainsley or Corban's attention there is a gracious bow before each. "You have all done exceptionally well, everything looks beautiful. Truly, you have outdone yourselves. Thank you so much for the invitation, my Lady, Lord and your Highness." A bright smile turned to Tikva, "Princess Tikva, so lovely to see you again."

Eirene gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Titania gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Eleanor has joined the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Derovai gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Ailys gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Norwood gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Reigna gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Lucita gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Gwenna gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Felicia has joined the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Gailin gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Margot arrives with Luca and looks around the room a faint smile etching on her fair lips. "Do you see a free space?"



The princess of deep blues tonight, the Princess Ailys quite agrees with her brother Aiden, laughing merrily as she trails the wisps of cobalt silk behind her, a fine pewter tiara bringing elegance to the young lady's face. Exuding a sense of elegance and outright delight -- she continues arm-in-arm with her brother, smiling earnestly and making pleasant greetings to those acquaintances she meets along the way.



Marcos arrives dressed in his finest clothes and escourting two other ladies to the party. He blinks as he enters. So many people and such finery. The sensation brings a smile to his face as he turns to usher Lucita in. "This promises to be more the a tad fun."

Caith has joined the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Alistair arrives bedecked in glorious... red and black Inquisition fashion. More forboding then any kind of mesmerizing. And he has no beautiful Velenosian Princess on his arm. Does the man even have a wardrobe to change or is it all red and black from end to end? He even comes with some Confessors! Perhaps he is here on business and someone will get dragged out kicking and screaming.

"I feel about twenty pounds too light, still." Felicia complains all but under her breath, but, well, efforts have been made at least. Her copper hair coiled up in at least some semblance of elegance and wearing a dress that's only liberally adorned with metal. Still, the way she moves is rather more 'wrecking ball' than 'belle of the ball' as she moves along with the dolled up King's Own contignet.


Enter some Thraxians. Well, at least one of them is a Thraxian, and she's dressed the part. Princess Cassima Thrax, with her wild black curls partially-tamed in an updo, enters wearing a military-inspired gown of black silk and gold roping, clearly modeled after a naval officer's jacket. She enters on the arm of her sister from another mister, Princess Caith Thrax. No two sisters have ever looked so different. As they enter, she smiles broadly at the great decor of the guests and the hosts, apparently, for now, enjoying herself. There's wine to be had and a token to be taken, and then she'll move to some out of the way corner. Wallflowering, commence!


Eleanor half snorts a laugh at Leona. "Yes, I do look amazing, don't I?" She smoothes a hand down her skirt with a crooked smile, eyes twinkling. "Someone was kind enough to give it to me." With a last little flounce she turns to survey the crowd. Despite the Lord Commander's comment, she seems to be sticking close by her. "This is ... a lot of people," she observes, brilliantly.

It is with a performer's lungs that Tikva Grayson addresses the assembled, and the brilliance of her smile shines brightly in her clarion voice.

"We're so glad you could come to the Glittering Gala! Everyone, pat yourselves on the back for turning up well and looking amazing, because I can see a lot of gorgeous outfits out there." She doesn't actually fingerguns, partly because she'd need two hands and she's busy gripping Ainsley's arm.


Gailin has left the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Puma, The Stonewood Forest Cat have been dismissed.

Rian has joined the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Eirene gets herself booze, a token, and a box. Satisfied with the alcohol, the Malvici woman finds a seat. She walks rather stiffly as if walking off a recent injury, which those of medical mien may note. A more sedate section of the gathering rather than the crowded populated ones.

"She said that she might make an attempt to attend. However, I am fully aware that my Ribbons is much, much, muuuuch busier than I am, my lady." Luca enters, clean-shaven and carefree and in a clean tunic. Which means that he recognizes that it's a very fancy occassion. He scans the room, narrowing his eyes, scoping out all of the refreshment tables as he guides Margot to a table.

Aeryn has joined the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Wash gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Cristoph walks into the party with his arm around Nicia's shoulders, they come together of course! And are mostly matching in their attire. As they stop at the various stations along the way, he picks up his ring box and opens it up. His eyebrows arch up and there's an amused expression on his face. "I think this looks better on you." He comment and hands the box over to his wife, before kissing the top of her head. "Lets find a location and caamp there, I think it's going to be incredibly, overwhelmingly busy tonight."

Monique stands beside Corban and Ainsley and Tikva, waving and greeting and all smiles in her gown of green seasilk. "Thank you so much, all, and thank you, Master Saedrus. You are, as ever, too kind! But I am grateful for it. I hope you'll enjoy the Gala! I absolutely can't wait to see who gets the duskstone and dawnstone rings from the party favors!"

Leona is wearing a soft grey gown, short in the front and long in the back, with knee length boots and a sheer cloak that flows around her. The only things that break up the dove grey fabric are two buckles of very questionable importance on her boots, and the silver thread embroidered into beautifully flowing vines all across the gown and the sheer cloak both. It shimmers as she moves - and despite her usual protestations, she seems to be quite comfortable in it. "Of course there are. Monique and Corban throw big parties. Oh look, there's the High Inquisitor." She waves at Alistair, gesturing at one of the empty places nearby in invitation.

Esoka gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

"Hi!" Tikva carols at Saedrus and Aleksei. She looks a little like she's on the verge of bouncing up and down. "You look great! You always look great!"

The Marquessa Kennex arrives draped in seasilk and aeterna, her gown highlighting that pale skin. Her arm is offered to a Lord of Grimhall and her attention is that way as well. "I'm glad you decided to attend, though I suppose you were bound to after that letter." Vanora murmurs to Valdemar as they slip in with a larger crowd from Thrax.

Sorrel gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Luca has joined the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Marcos has joined the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

1 Grayson Guardsmen have been dismissed.

Luca has left the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Rosalie, a lady in waiting arrives, following Reese.

Lucita has joined the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Luca has joined the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Apollis gets a bronze ring set with a dark purple amethyst from a small ring box.

Wynna has joined the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

"Entirely true," Saedrus chortles to Tikva, "Aleksei always looks wonderful." They're so Gross.


Aeryn enters and looks flabberghasted at all the people, blue eyes going wide and she sticks to the perimeter of the room, stalking over to her brother's table and practically hides behind him.

Margot has joined the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Alistair has joined the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Margotnods slightly, "Well then I will have to make you dance at some point while we wait. But first a drink." She winks and follows after him.

"Does it?" Nicia wonders, opening the box that Cristoph hands her, smiling a bit before she then holds the box she picked up towards him, "This might be more your style." But then they are off, towards a quiet table, where they are out of the way of the rest filing in.

Lucita walks with Marcos into the huge press of people at the event and over toward a seat with him. She gives a curtsy and a beguiling smile to those already present there.

Titania comes walking in arm in arm with Gailin looking around a soft smile on her face as she makes her first full public apperance with her husband Count Gailin. She is dressed in a very nice dress and Gailin is dressed in a suit to match black with matching acsents for her dress. She breaths deeply seeing so many here, but she walks in and heads to find a place to sit down.

Ainsley pets his hand against Tikva's hand when she addresses those gathered. His attention dragged away from the shining hands and back to the gathered. "Thank you all for coming! We're so glad you could all be here and yes, everyone looks amazing."

Ailys gets a bronze ring set with a beautiful aquamarine from a small ring box.

Aeryn gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Ainsley then shifts toward Saedrus and Aleksei when they approach, using his free arm to half hug both men, before lifting his hand toward his siblings. "Ailys, Aiden."

Nicia gets a heavy silver ring set with a rare-hued purple sapphire from a small ring box.

Derovai and Thena head in with the rest. They make a rather mismatched couple, between the black-clad fellow and the Knight of Solace, but they seem to know each other, talking quietly between themselves. Derovai's dressed up his black, though, in a bit nicer black, and Thena has on an iron-gray gown and slippers. The pair settle themselves in the stone alcove, continuing their quiet conversation, even if Derovai scans the crowd a bit pensively. He turns to Thena, shaking his head, murmuring something to her before settling in one of the chairs.

Cristoph gets a bronze ring with nickle accents set with amber from a small ring box.

Sorrel gets an elegant silver ring set with a rare-hued moonlit sapphire from a small ring box.

Thena gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Wash gets a Token of Gild from A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Aleksei arrives with Saedrus on his arm, looking fancy but a bit less /on theme/. He grins wide, dressed in a soft linen shirt and rich blue waistcoat, and some kidskin leather pants that are -- ridiculously tight. And since he can't bear to be parted with it, Chainbreaker is at his hip, but with a fancy silk peace knot. "We look great! You look great!" he calls back to Tikva before looking around for someplace to get a drink and settle.

Felix gets a bronze ring with nickle accents set with amber from a small ring box.

Amarantha and Apollis walk in, arm in arm and discussing something about a puppy and how Apollis should have considered getting it a trainer. The siblings are both dressed well--though the style is ruined by the black and brown bits of hair clinging to their outfits.

Reigna gets a bronze ring set with a dark purple amethyst from a small ring box.

Cassima gets a pewter ring set with a smooth moonstone from a small ring box.

Ainsley has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Eirene gets an ornate pewter ring set with a glimmering peridot from a small ring box.

Samantha arrives with her little contingent of guards, which she always quick to send off to loiter wherever it is they'd be sent to loiter, providing she can make at least a few of them go away. She takes a quick moment to find some familiar faces amongst the throng.

Esoka enters, dressed up for the occasion and minus any arms or armor. She walks with some awkwardness in skirts, and without the balance of a sword at her hip, but manages not to trip over her hem as she enters. She takes a token of Gild, tucking it carefully in a fold of her dress.

Rian gets a solid gold ring with an exquisite green emerald from a small ring box.

Percephon picks up A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Percephon drops A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Caith gets a heavy silver ring set with a blue sapphire cabochon from a small ring box.

Amarantha gets a pewter ring set with a large blue topaz from a small ring box.

Aleksei has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Saedrus has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Vanora has joined the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Aiden looks over to his sister and he has to increase the volume of his voice as he talks to Ailys, "We should go sit somewhere!" Because he's getting a little anxiety being arounded by so many people, making a squawk or two and a 'pardon me' for the instances that people bump into them.

Silvio picks up Instructions for RING in the New Year party favors at the shop.

Marian gets a solid gold ring with an enamel likeness of the Goddess Gild from a small ring box.

Silvio drops Instructions for RING in the New Year party favors at the shop.

Stepping inside hand in hand with an arm linked around Joslyn's, Delilah shares a quiet bit of chatter with the other woman. She puts on a faint smile for those around her as she sweeps on in, gets herself a ring box, and..

Delilah gets a gold ring set with a large dawnstone from a small ring box.

Taking Vanora's arm politely, Valdemar instinctively tugs at the collar of his coat. Letting out a dry laugh when she mentions a letter, he nods his head and replies to her, "Yes, I will have to...thank Father...for sending me his invitation. I'm sure he regrets being unable to make it himself." He then leads the Marquessa to the north end of the large oaken table to have a seat there.

Norwood gets an elegant gold ring set with a padparadscha sapphire from a small ring box.

Valdemar has joined the North End of the Great Oaken Table.



Ailys's greetings are nothing like the genuine sense of sisterly joy she feels when she half-runs to meet Ainsley! "Brother," she laughs, arms wide open to see him. "Oh, you look lovely. We all do, don't you think! I love this night so much," the gregarious princess is starry-eyed in her admiration of the night.



"As you come in, you may well see the enticing raffle for extremely rare pyreweave boots, made my Mistress Petal. If you are interested, please see Lady Monique's assistants who will be selling tickets. All the writs raised tonight will be split among the Houses and the Faith of the Pantheon in honor of our Lady Gild." When Lord Corban notices the Second of the Knights of Solace, Dame Thena, he bows his head to her in recognition.

Felicia gets an ornate pewter ring set with a glimmering peridot from a small ring box.

Reese gets an elegant gold ring with set with a blood-red ruby from a small ring box.


Also enter one Redrain princess, perhaps not too far behind the pair of Thraxian princesses. Thankfully Gwenna caught sight of Cassima and Caith within the crowd, her steps taking her in the same direction toward the Great Cathedral in glass and stone. Traded for leathers is a seasilk gown in hues of snow white and pale greens, jewelry and other accessories to match. With all that is going on, Gwenna seems pleased to take a seat and go over all the swag that has been handed out along the way.


Titania gets an ornate pewter ring set with a glimmering peridot from a small ring box.



And then Ailys turns to the younger of her brothers and nods. "Where would you think is suitable," she smiles brightly.



Aeryn gets a pewter ring set with a smooth moonstone from a small ring box.

1 Igniseri scarlet phoenix guards, Apollis leave, following Amarantha.

Ianna gets a pewter ring set with a smooth moonstone from a small ring box.

Lady Eshra Rivenshari, steps in looking just like one might have come to expect and at the same time entirely different. From head to toe she wears the colors of the sea. Yes those dark chaotic curls are still as wild, still hiding dozens of tiny braids that are each woven with little silver bells but they are not pulled back away from her face, held with topaz hair pins that allow them to cascade down her back. The dress, layers of sea silk and crocheted lace very much in the Rivenshari style of layers and moving silk, studded with tiny little opals and crystal beads that are almost invisble until she moves and the light sparkles and catches the eye One would think that the soft teal boots with the white fur cuffs would finish the picture, at least until you saw the Felix in black leather and teal at her side, her arm linked through the Master Smith's as she blinks at the number of people filling the hall.

It was the first time out at a social function like this since her daughter was born and so happy that it was something like this. The tall blonde, blue eyed Kennex beauty decided to wearing something that suited her personality: very bright but somewhat reserved. The dress itself was enough that all that hung around her neck was the Jewel of the Saffron locket. Her long blonde hair was pulled up into a chignon to expose her long slender neck. Looking over to the man she was linked arm in arm with, her husband Wash to give him a smile. "Well this is going to be fun....." Catalana would wink at him playfully then as she held the front of her dress just slightly so as not o step upon it.

Aiden follows Ailys when she half-runs over toward Ainsley.

Silvio gets a pewter ring set with a large blue topaz from a small ring box.

Tikva has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Gwenna gets a bronze ring with nickle accents set with amber from a small ring box.

Catalana gets an ornate pewter ring set with a glimmering peridot from a small ring box.

Lucita gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Fairen gets a bronze ring set with a beautiful aquamarine from a small ring box.

Samantha has joined the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Gwenna puts a bronze ring with nickle accents set with amber in a small ring box.

Samantha has left the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Samantha has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Marcos gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Gwenna puts a Token of Gild in pale snowflower leather backpack.

Gailin picks up Instructions for RING in the New Year party favors at the shop.

Silvio has joined the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Gwenna puts Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| in pale snowflower leather backpack.

The Count and Countess Keaton arrive, he in almost uniform black with touches of green, and she in her painted umbra and green seasilk. They are engrossed in conversation, though the throng of people that greet them gives pause. Reigna tries to navigate around the various offerings, oohing and ahhhing here and there, picking up her treasures. Once they are laden with their generous gifts, she spies a table with friendly faces and tugs Kael along with her in that direction. "Lady Monique is incredible, a party visionary, really."

Gailin drops Instructions for RING in the New Year party favors at the shop.

Gwenna puts a small ring box in pale snowflower leather backpack.

Catalana puts an ornate pewter ring set with a glimmering peridot in a sea-swirling dainty backpack.

Catalana puts a Token of Gild in a sea-swirling dainty backpack.

It’s a highly atypical entrance for Thena, neither in black, nor armor, nor alone. She’s dressed in a suitably severe and monochromatic style though, broken only by the crimson of her hairpins, and seems composed with her hand tucked in the crook of Derovai’s arm. she stops them near Corban and...curtsies. “Lord Corban. You have been busy.” She gestures at the splendid surroundings.

Felix was feeling more than a little at odds with his clothing, not quite used to the feel of silk - or being as clean as he'd managed to get himself. A hard scrubbing to rid himself of the ingrained dusting of coal, and a new set of clothes, and the smith looked mostly presentable, though still a little plain standing next to his companion of the evening, Eshra. Taking a moment to blink as he looks around, clearly having expected a crowd. But maybe not this much of a crowd.

Ainsley laughs at Ailys' words and gives her a hug, before stepping back again. A nod of his head is given and he says, "You and Aiden both look great. And yes, this is a fabulous evening." He then hugs Saedrus and says, "Thank you."

Catalana puts A Riverbed Dress in a sea-swirling dainty backpack.

4 Ashford House Guard arrives, following Harlan.

Monique is there, chatting laughing, enjoying everyone's spectacular arrivals. "Blessed spirits, I can't even get over how stunning everyone looks tonight." There's a hand lifted to her sister Marian, and her cousin Ianna. And an especially appreciative look to Eshra's outfit. She calls out, "You look stunning!" to the latter.

Jaxon, Champion of the Reflection, Tale - The Snow Fox, A Mirror Masked Woman, Calvary -- A Large Fluffy Hound, 2 Velenosa House Guards arrive, following Isolde.

Jaxon, Champion of the Reflection have been dismissed.

A Mirror Masked Woman have been dismissed.

2 Velenosa House Guards have been dismissed.

Silvio comes flouncing into the assembly and snaps up both favors. He pauses, though, overcome with curiosity as to the contents of the ring box. He can be heard, to those nearby, to say, "Oh why /thank you/...you shouldn't have," before opening it up. He seems MOST PLEASED to see that the ring is blue and TOTALLY goes with his ownfit, so he puts it right on his finger and abandons the box on the nearest table.

Esoka has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Sorrel has joined the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Wash has joined the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Eirene is just drinking and watching people with a critical eye. Not for their dresess, no, she seems more interested in what weapons they wear as she's not wearing her usual longsword, just a dagger which - actually - matches her outfit. Stylish and practical and entirely Lycene.

Ianna has joined the South End of the Great Oaken Table.

Wash keeps a comfortable arm around Catalana's waist and steers the both of them to a table where he expects to meet new people.

Fairen has joined the South End of the Great Oaken Table.

Catalana has joined the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Aiden looks quickly about and takes up a quiet post behind Ailys, though he does try to smile at Ainsley, "It's... uhm. Grand. Very grand. Would you recommend a place where I can uh... stay out of the way?"

Harlan enters from outside and pauses, either to make an entrance or ... just to figure out where he should be going, and to see who's here. As far as entrances go, though -- well, he's here, and apparently wearing a new set of clothes -- isn't everyone?

Ian was here. He came. Everyone saw him. (Okay, possibly not.) But, whether seen being here or not, now he gives into the urge to slip right back out again.

Delilah has joined the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Joslyn has joined the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Eshra's hand tighten's on Felix's arm as she catches Moniques's call and bows her head, not that the tiny bells that sing out can be heard over the people. Looking up at her companion of the evening bites into her lip. "Maybe a drink?"

Rinel has joined the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

"No, no, no," laughs Caith, tugging at her sister's arm. "No lingering along the edges! You did not get all dressed up so you could stand in the shadows and do math equations in your head. You WILL have fun tonight. You WILL talk to people," -- before Cassima can say anything, the blonde perkasaurus continues: "..about something other than economics. You WILL dance. This is an order." Now Caith is not dressed fabulously. It's not that she's shabby it's just that she's new in town, she didn't have time to get something great made and .. excuses. But she is radiant enough on her own and she is a fluttery thing: light on her feet and joyous. She pulls her sister into the fray, complimenting this person and that along the way.

Spotting a familiar face -- Gwenna! -- she shoots her hand into the air and gives her a wave. "Let's go over and say hallo."

Once the guests have had some time to settle in, get their favors, and so on and so forth, Lord Corban makes his way on out into the middle of the dance floor, raising his voice once more. "Our first game tonight will be paired dancing! You do not need a partner of the opposite sex and it need not be romantic. But we will play lively tunes and eliminate couples one by one until there is only one remaining! And that couple will receive -- to split among them -- writs valued at 5,000 silver to each Ferron Arms and Armor and Atelier Joscelin, two of the finest crafters in the Capital!"

Thesarin makes his way into the hall, looking over the crowd of lords and ladies, searching from people he knows in the confusion. The Count of the Twainfort is dressed well tonight, fine silk in blues and whites and green, much finer than the man is usually seen in. The fine silk has a daringly low neckline, showing bronzed skin over taut muscle, and showing more lines and whorls and points in copery shav'arvani tribal tattoos than he's ever been seen on the streets of Arx displaying. He makes his way toward the hosts, giving them a low nod at his approach. "Quite the event!

Aiden has joined the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Isolde has joined the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Luca has left the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Rian has left the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Rinel has left the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

"Aiden," Ailys begins to frown -- but then she brightens up bittersweetly in his insecurity. "It's quite alright -- perhaps by one of those entertainments -- I'd love to explore them with you, but I'd also like to meet all of these lovely people too," she chuckles.

Felix nods, once, "That seems like it would be a good place to start, aye." having stopped to pick up the entry gifts, tucking the ones he can away for later inspection. Corban's call, however, tilts his head, grinning a little. "Might be one we can skip, there. Let ourselves get a good seat while everyone else is up... though if you want, I would be glad to be your partner?" otherwise, motion made to move to where the drinks are being served.

Eshra has joined the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Felix has joined the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Rinel looks about hopefully for a partner, eyes bright at the prospect of a dance.

Nicia has joined the line.

Isolde has joined the line.

Aiden has joined the line.

Ashe has joined the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Alistair has joined the line.

Cristoph has joined the line.

Margerie has joined the line.

Rinel has joined the line.

Ailys has joined the line.

Ainsley tilts his head toward Aiden and says, "You can sit here by the Assembly of Peers if you like. Or over maybe with the gardens? Or the Shining Lands... I suppose if you want to be sad the Shining Lands..." He glances over to the table made to appear like the shining lands, and his expression briefly dims. But a smile is pushed on and he says, "Really anywhere, is probably going to be a little bit busy."

Harlan apparently showed up too late to find a dance partner. Alas. He moves over towards the Shining Lands, perhaps at random.

Harlan has joined the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.


For the room, Cassima is dragged by Caith toward the seating around the Cathedral, where she sits with Wenna, Sorrel, and others she's not yet had the pleasure of meeting!


Margot has left the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Sorrel has joined the line.

As Corban announces the games to start, Monique moves to one of the diorama tables, 'Their Majesties in the Garden' to mingle.

Felicia has joined the line.

Norwood has joined the line.

Gailin isnt normally one for these types of formal gathering. However he will do anything if it means Titania is happy, once theyve sat down he looks to her with a broad smile he kisses the back of her hand. "Well what do you think Titania?" he asks softly.

Eleanor has joined the line.

Eshra gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Monique has joined the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Aiden looks like he wanted to flee but for the sake of his family his shoulders square up and he nods to both Ailys and Ainsley, "I think I shall take our sister dancing, dear brother. There's SPACE out there, isn't there? Besides, I think my sweet sister needs to be shown off and be swept more neatly off her feet." He's looking around then offers Ailys his arm to go to the dance competition.

Thesarin has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Aiden has left the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Saedrus has joined the line.

Leona has joined the line.

Eirene does not dance. She drinks. She shakes her head as the others at the table bring it up and is quite emphatic about it. She shifts uneasily in her seat, adjusting to her gown. Tanned legs one rarely sees exposed as she crosses them high on her knee.

Silvio has left the North End of the Great Oaken Table.



Ailys nods with Ainsley and then grins when the announcement begins. "Yes," she smiles to Aiden, "Opportune to show them there's none greater than Grayson," she nudges him playfully and then, "And, well... perhaps another partner later tonight," she notes coyly.



Catalana has joined the line.

Cassima has joined the line.

Caith has joined the line.

Silvio has joined the line.

Titania chuckles at something and looks to Gailin her cheeks turn a light pink, "I was not expecting so many to be here." she looks back to Vanora.

Fashionably late, Marquessa Quenia Igniseri makes her way onto the grounds, and is shown to the party area. She is dressed simply, yet resplendently in a sleeveless seasilk dress of wispy glittery layers and flower blossoms, and a matching pair of shoes to go with it. There is, of course, a cloak for the colder winter air, but it's not drawn too tightly across her shoulders. She takes a moment to get her bearings, and seek out one or two people that she might know - likely, specifically, her cousin Lucita and their escort.

Marian takes a sip of her drink and glances at the dance floor, "Don't have a partner this evening." She gives a wry smile to the folks sitting at her, "And it appears this is not a solo contest." She sits back and watches to see who jumps in the line, "I mean...I can dance. But..." She looks around as if the idea of picking a new partner isn't at the top of her list.

Margerie is all in Oakhaven greens and blacks, Oakhaven leather and long sheer green draping down the legs. A bit bold for a woman in her AHEM thirties, but she's perfectly at ease in it. Well. At ease in so much as she seems to be avoiding sitting down thus far. She tugs Norwood out to the line for the contest just as the poor man seems about to settle himself in to not doing much. To make matters worse? At the last moment turns him towards some unoccupied partner. "Meet someone new. It will do you good!" Then she's being turned to someone else herself. AH! A Rinel. She flashes a dazzling smile. "Margerie Keaton. Lovely to make your acquaintance."

Wash has joined the line.

Tikva says very loudly at her table, "GO HAVE FUN," and then starts to giggle hysterically for some reason.

Silvio notices a single lady, oh boy, and makes his way in her direction. "My dearest lady, would you do me the honor of competeing with me in this affair? I assure you, I will not step on your feet." And Silvio bows his head to Sorrel. "I am Prince Silvio Velenosa."

Ainsley follows up with Tikva, making shooing motions, "GO DANCE"

Cheryl the Assistant Innkeeper, Scourge, a sweater wearing rat-dog arrive, following Mae.

Samantha mysteriously starts to giggle right along with Tikva.


While perhaps not a complete stranger to dancing, Gwenna remains seated and lifts a glass in half-toast as the princesses Cassima and Caith make their way toward the dancing. "Have fun," she calls cheerfully, seemingly content to watch this foray for now.

Scourge, a sweater wearing rat-dog have been dismissed.

Ainsley says, loudly, "Shit!"

Rinel curtsies deeply to Margerie, beaming happily at the introduction. "Rinel Tern, my lady. How do you do?"

Quenia has joined the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

It appears as though Nicia and Cristoph are going to brave the dancing, as the pair are heading out to join with the line. "Remind me to ask her about the bake sale when we sit back down."

"I'd be delighted!" Sorrel replies to Silvio, offering him her hand and dropping a flourishing curtsey. "I am Lady Sorrel Wyrmguard, the Bladesong of Blancbier! I love to dance! You've found the right girl, Prince Silvio."

Holden, ucharacteristically, shows up for a parrty. Not only does the Knight show up to the party, but he even shows up not dressed in full armor, and cleaned up. He makes his way in and stands off to the side so that his large frame doesn't block anyone's entrance as he takes everything in with a slow scan of the festivities.

The High Inquisitor turns away from the grouping of King's Own to see his future wife to be approach, the man stepping forward to accept the hug and kiss she offers. To some present it might look like Isolde is attempting to stick her head into the open mouth of a lion. Alas, she does not lose her head and no one bursts into flames. It seems the High Inquisitor even looks a bit happy.

Eleanor gets a pewter ring set with a large blue topaz from a small ring box.

Cheryl the Assistant Innkeeper leaves, following Mae.

Cheryl the Assistant Innkeeper arrives, following Mae.


On the dance floor, Cassima's black and gold military inspired gown whispers against the floor as she moves with Caith, giving her sister a fond peck on the cheek before taking her own place in line. "Now remember, my dearest. I've met your criteria for a fun evening. Be proud of me." Her smile is fond and playful.


Marcos has joined the line.

Leona takes the floor with the ash blonde in brown leathers, looking quite comfortable as she does. "I have no idea if this will be a dance I know or not," she confides to Ashe quietly, "but we'll muddle along, I'm sure." Her lazy smile is amused.

Gailin smiles to Titania and than looks to Vanora. "Marquessa how are you?" he asks befor looking back to Titania. "My love this is ypur life now. Im not so good with the talkie people thing."

Joslyn gets an elegant gold ring set with a rare-hued tangerine ruby from a small ring box.

Mae has joined the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Margerie hmmms as she waits for the music to set an inspiraiton. "So, Mistress Tern! Shall we be ridiculous and amusing? Or are we to attempt something serious? I will confess that dancing is on my list of skills to learn here in Arx."

Entering the Great Hall is a woman that almost everyone knows, but few may actually recognize tonight. Mae Grayhope is dressed to the nines! She's put on a touch of makeup, she smells delightfully of citrus blossoms, she's pinned her hair up. Almost surely more noticeable than all that is what Mae wears: a fiery red and orange gown made of seasilk, covered in a cascade of stones. Glittering is an understatement! Soon as Mae is inside - a very awkward, nervous look on her face despite how she's dressed - she desperately looks around until she spots the woman she's looking for, and startes a bee-line for Leona.

It appears that Aleksei and Ainsley might be dancing instead since Aleksei just tackled the prince and LIFTED HIM OFF OF THE GROUND ... but wait no, Ainsley's set back down so it's not an impromptu tango going on there. Ainsley gives a laugha nd a little shake of his head. A hand lifted to wave in the direction of Aiden and Ailys to get their attention.

Ailys has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

The Lady Malvici has a servant send over some writs of promise for raffle tickets before shooting Ianna a 'look'. A 'don't ask' look. It's dower. "Just shut up and go dance," she says dryly, shoo-ing her and Farien over towards teh dance floor. Eirene motions for another glass of the house-wine and settles in for the long evening of watching people do stupid things for prizes.

Rinel smiles at the woman's question. "If you would like, my lady, I'd be happy to lead--though I've only recently returned to the city and I fear I no longer know what dances are in vogue. Even my attempts at serious dancing may end up being ridiculous and amusing."

Titania stands up and tugs Gailin with her to get in line, "Come on Gailin, com dance." she says softly as she heads for everyone else.

What even is dancing? Looks like Saedrus is a little preoccupied fussing over Tikva. Saedrus and Aleksei really should move towards the dancefloor soon-- just not yet..

Aiden happens to look up in the chaos to see his brother lifted up off the ground. He draws Ailys' attention to the hand wave and moves toward the said place.

Aiden has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

"Now remember, Cassima," Caith says as they get out onto the dancefloor. "It's all in the hips." It illustrate this point, she gives her sister a little bump. With her hip. Hipbump! For luck, you know. It's like a high-five but with your hips. ANYWAY. She flutters a hand. "One dance does not get you off the hook but it is a start." The blonde twinkles a grin at her older sibling and smooches her cheek. "Just. Have. Fun."

Silvio lets his eyes shine for Sorrel and a look up and down her form lets a genuine smile to his Lycene lips. "I can see very well that I did. If we should lose...I say...we blame it on the eternal jealousy of the judges." He tips his head and his wavy curls sway with the motion.

Ashe allows herself to be pulled out onto the dance floor by Leona, wearing a warm smile. "Muddling through is how most of us get through life," she remarks lightly to the Lord Commander. "And if we don't do terribly well, at least we'll be able to laugh about it."

Ailys is all elegance as she takes her brother by her waist amicably and smiles -- to the crowd, to Aiden, to her competitors -- and begins to move her figure into a spiral of cobalt blue jewels. A hand is permitted to stray from form to grin at Ainsley and Aleksei, but overwhelmingly, the pair concentrate on the dance at hand.

Gailin follows behind Titania. "Alright I guess if youd like."

Titania has joined the line.

Harlan has joined the line.

Gailin has joined the line.

Eshra gets a bronze ring with nickle accents set with amber from a small ring box.

Reese arrives at the Gala while adorned in pink and toting along her weapons. She eagerly takes one the ring boxes and pulls out a ruby ring. "Oooos..wow.." She says, seemingly impressed with the favor. Reese isn't really dressed up at all. Her leggings are wool and shirt is common cloth. She does look ready to fight though.


Caith's hip-bump makes Cassima stumble a step or two, she was not expecting that! But she laughs at the girl's antics. "If you'd let me sit down I'd be having plenty of fun. Nothing is more amusing than watching you, darling." That smile of amusement has grown into a loving grin. Sisters, amirite?


Reigna has joined the line.

Leona waves at Mae from where they're setting up. "Mae, you look wonderful tonight. Great dress! Is that the one Mags had made for you, that he didn't see after he commissioned it?" She grins at the other women as Corban announces the rules.

Tikva has left the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Confessor Imori have been dismissed.

2 Grayson Guardsmen have been dismissed.

Confessor Warren have been dismissed.

5 Armed Confessors have been dismissed.

As people begin to get out onto the dance floor, Cris leans over to murmur something into Nicia's ear quietly.

Tikva has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Once they were out on the the dance floor, Catalana would smile as she held out her hands to Wash. Smiling brightly she would put an arm on his shoulder then as she winked. "Let's see if I still have two left feet."

Margerie chuckles at Rinel as she holds out her hands. "Well, the last dance I was at involved at least one number set to the baying of hounds so you ought to be at least one dance ahead of me. Let's see if we can set a record for being knocked out of the competition!" SHe may be confident in the dress. Dance skills? Ehhh

Romina, a silent Mirrorguard agent arrives, following Niccolo.

"Don't let me step on your dress." Wash warns his wife. "You know how I like to lead."

Rinel takes Margerie's hands and assumes a somewhat stately pose, holding the woman in the formal style common among the smaller villages of the Oathlands.

Lucita nods as she is asked to dance and moves forward with her partner Marcos., smiling gently.

Titania smiles and oh look she drags Gailin with her over to where Aiden is, "YOur Highness." she gives him a curtsey, "Prince Aiden, have you meet Count Gailin Fireviper?" she asks while they wait for the dancing to start.

Aleksei ends up having to drag Saedrus away from Ainsley and Tikva to haul him over to the dancing, although he does finally catch his brother in the crowd. His brows shoot up, and he lifts a hand to wave enthusiastically at Holden and then jab a finger towards the Assembly of Peers diorama like he's directing him there.

Nicia tilts her head to listen to the whisper, a quick smile crossing her face before she settles her hands on Cristoph. She is ready! For the dancing, and it's great to be dancing, right? Thankfully only one of them might have squished feet by the end of the night.

Aeryn has joined the line.

Harlan has left the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Gailin gives a bow. "Its a pleasure Prince Aiden

Harlan has joined the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Saedrus is dragged away, mournfully still calling out something about chocolate-oranges? Who knows. Soon enough though, he's by the dancefloor slipping his hand into one of Aleksei's with a smile.

Oh thankgoodness for Reigna. Norwood was looking more than slightly bemused and utterly out of his depth. "Countess," she gets greeted before the dancing will begin. "I will do my best to not slow you down."

Eirene places her fingers in her mouth and wolf-whistles for Mae, to be obnoxious. As one does.

Catalana would pick up that little train of her dress then and nodded. "Don't worry....I won't..." And with that....she let him lead away in that dancing.

"Definitely jealousy," Sorrel agrees to Silvio, spinning into him, which has the helpful effect of showing off her dainty dancing slippers when her very wide skirt lifts then tightens around her legs. She's worn silks designed for dancing over being sensuous.

Ashe checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 12 higher.

Saedrus checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 28 higher.

Cristoph checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 41 higher.

Wash checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 20 higher.

Caith has rolled a critical success!
Caith checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 67 higher.

Leona checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 16 higher.

Cassima checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 1 lower.

Aiden checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 28 higher.

Reigna hurriedly departs her table and moves up to the dashing Sir Norwood and lightly puts her hand on his arm. "Shall we, Sir Clement?" There is a laugh and a smile offered to the man as she shakes her head, "Oh, I fear it will be me slowing you down."

Rinel checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 5 lower.

Catalana checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 11 higher.

Eleanor checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 14 higher.

Felicia checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 15 higher.

Marcos checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 3 lower.

Silvio checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 3 lower.

Aleksei checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 18 higher.

Sorrel checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 48 higher.

Nicia checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 11 lower.

Alistair checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 12 higher.

Reigna checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 10 higher.

Ailys checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 3 lower.

Lucita checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 17 higher.

Norwood checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 21 higher.

Marian raises her glass to Mae after Eirene wolf whistles just to send her greetings.

Isolde checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 0 higher.

Holden catches sight of Aleksei and Saedrus and he lifts a hand to wave to the pair of them as they head out onto the dance floor. He gives a nod at the general pointing, and heads in that direction, not seeming to have any other plans for the moment outside of simply getting in the door. He maneuvers around the periphery so as not to collide with anyone.

Mae is totally immune to wolf whistles! On account there's no way she thinks Eirene's whistle is for /her/. She will, though, offer a timid smile and a tiny wave to Marian.


Aeryn is letting Harlan lead her out to the floor and is the last to join, eyebrows raised, eyes wide and laughing she manages to begin to dance right on time, placing a hand on her shoulder, still looking bewildered, but glowing, as usual. Her other hand slips into his.

Harlan checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 3 higher.

Margerie checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 2 lower.

Aeryn has rolled a critical success!
Aeryn checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 6 higher.

Reese is reading a message as she quietly slips out the gala.

Gailin checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 1 lower.

Rosalie, a lady in waiting leaves, following Reese.

Holden has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Ianna checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 19 lower.

Niccolo arrives at the Gala with his guard, his brief one-handed gesture as he enters sending her to wait outside. It has been some time since Niccolo has joined a social event in Arx, but one wouldn’t know it from his easy look of confidence as stands near the entrance and scans the room.

Aiden was just getting caught up on some of the news going on around the table, clasping his hand against Ainsley's shoulder, when Titania brings over her husband, Gailin. He smile politely and calls out to them on their way to the dance floor, "I've heard of him, Countess, and helped with Cedar Vale, but it will be good to properly meet some time when we're not... twirling about!"

Titania checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 3 lower.

"At very least I think we could avoid stepping on one another's toes, yes?" Between the two of them it is possible! Taking up her hand Norwood will spin her carefully onto the floor. Perhaps not the most technical, but he has at least some grace on his side. "I'm afraid Lady Margerie managed another one of her tricks on me." It's more amusement and chagrin in that then annoyance.

Harlan is ... fairly graceful when moving -in general-. So dancing isn't a task he's unfamiliar or incapable of handling. Dancing with a lovely young woman only makes it even easier. He makes the steps fairly easy, offering her a smile with a hand on her hip and one holding one of hers. He says lightly, "This is probably the first dance I've attended in a few years, to be honest."

Eirene greets Niccolo with a raised glass as opposed to a sexy whistle, because despite knowing him for many years one simply does -not- greet their former Archduke with such a hello.


Cassima Thrax was busy glaring back to the seats at Gwenna, quite playfully, when suddenly everyone stepped forward to their partners. She reacted qucikly, stepping before she was turned all the way back around and looking, and sets herself on a collision course with caith. They end up turning away from each other and bumping hips, and loud laughter rings across the Hall. Caith, fortunately, knows her dancing super seriously, and is able to steady Cassima so the pair can finish the turn, at the very least.


You know those dances where a guy just is basically a prop for the lady? Prince Silvio makes an /excellent/ prop. While Sorrel is dancing beautiful, he basically gestures nicely and holds her fingertips, moving in steps that are generally complimentary, so that is SEEMS like the two of them are dancing excellently, but its really ALL HER. SHHHH.

Leona winks at Mae even as they take the floor, and mutters to Ashe, "I really have no idea what this dance is, but I'm sure we'll just make it up as we go along." They do in fact seem to be muddling through alright, at least for now.

Vanora is seated at the North End of the Great Oaken Table with a cluster of people, and notices Niccolo arriving. She lifts her hand and waves to beckon him over should he notice her and decide he'd like to sit.

Cristoph isn't the best of dancers, but he's competent when his toes are stepped on. Though Nicia and himself are quite close the entire time and seem rather consumed with whatever private conversation they're having as the dance music plays.

Marian raises her glass to Niccolo as well in greeting, recognizing the man and sending her invite as well.

Eleanor isn't tiny, but looks quite small in Felicia's arms. The pair of knights don't /exactly/ seem to know the steps, but they muddle along alright. Eleanor, adding an extra twirl to admire the way her skirt spins out, laughs and gives Felicia a nose-wrinkled smile. "You're not too bad!"

Reigna is actually rather light on her feet as she is spun by Norwood. There's a laugh paired with his words and she is shaking her head, "Oh, she's a tricky one, my aunt Margerie. But for all her tricks, she's one of the kindest hearts I know."

Saedrus makes an elegant bow to Aleksei, offering a hand to the man despite the fact Saed's still holding the other. Though his smile is soft the warm colour lifting in his cheeks helps, stepping in closer as hands, arms, feet find their place to the dance with practiced ease.

On the other hand, Nicia is a terrible dancer, and ends up stepping all over Cristoph's toes. Perhaps it is whatever quiet conversation they are having that keeps her too distracted to leave her poor husbands feet unstomped on.

The life of a scholar is not one of dancing, and while Rinel makes an effort, she's quite obviously not practiced in the art of graceful moving. You'd never know it from the young woman's face, though--she's all smiles and laughs as she and Margerie twirl around the room, delighted in the experience, both aware and utterly heedless of her relative lack of skill.

Aleksei is leanly athletic and light on its feet, but it's Saedrus who's the real /dancer/. And it's the Whisper who's probably leading the two of them, even if he's good enough to not make it seem at all the case.

Aiden helps cover for the misstep that his beautiful sister, Ailys, took, grinning then at her as her foot may have stomped on his, "You should've seen me when I first came to Arx and had... to dance. It was with the now Countess Arcelia. She tolerated me but I think I looked awful. I was all box and square armed." He manages to guide them now, looking at least graceful enough to not collid them with someone else. There are chances of that!

Lucita gives a soft laugh as she spins and circles Marcos, gently trying to assess his ability to dance. "Not bad, not too bad, and even if I step on your toes, I don't weigh that much, you won't be limping around." She teases gently.

Margerie accepts the demure scholar's hands and looks in the woman's eyes as they set out to, well ... less than stellar effect! But what they lack in any sort of skill, the former Countess will attempt to make up in grins. "So do you know many people here? It's quite the gathering of luminaries!" That bit about looking at her partner's eyes? It lasts /whole seconds/ before she ends up looking at the feet of people nearby to attempt to keep up. "Remind me to make dance lessons a significantly higher priority."

Ashe does her best to dance with Leona -- it's more like the woman in her brown leathers is swordfighting rather than dancing, but even if she moves with more energy and enthusiasm than actual grace and formal dance training, she manages to keep it in time with the music and not step on her partner's toes.

Sorrel is not at all troubled by having a dance partner who's mostly a prop. She just dances around him easily and enjoys the music, though she's eagerly watching the other couples dance and laughing merrily. She's clearly having a lovely time.

So, like, her sister doesn't dance. Ever. Maybe she dances her way around an accounting ledger but that's about it. Caith dances through life, skipping along to unheard music without even trying most of the time. So when Cassima zigs when she should have zagged? Her younger sister simply catches her hand and turns it into a spin! A turn! A dip! See? They /meant/ to do that.

Ailys is a little disappointed with her performance, but the dancing arts were never her greatest asset in spite of her sprightly, well-educated nature. She keeps a wide smile on her face even as she fails to perform properly -- her brother's help chee her up that much, and attempts to regain her composure... but she can't help look at a certain well-performing duke nearby and feeling a little disheartened.

Aiden has left the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Titania had not been dancing in a long while and so it shows she blushes as she dances with Gailin trying her very best not to step on the poor mans toes, she looks to his eyes with a apologetic look.


"It's been a few months for me. Not that anything has compared with this." Aeryn's face brightens, seeing how they step in time and follow a natural rhythm - they don't seem to be doing too badly. She does however, remain on her tip toes to make up for the lack of height. "Artshall's functions are quite a bit smaller." She laughs, "Whoever organized this is.. well. Good at it." she says to Harlan, leaning in a bit to whisper something.

Marcos stumbles as Lucita talks of stepping on his toes and has the grace to blush. "Not at all. Step all over them. Better then Me stepping on yours for sure."


Ailys has left the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Holding onto Wash as they dancing around, she'd lean in and giggle a bit as she whispered something to him. Catalana pulled back a bit then as they danced, looking around a bit.

Rinel's eyes sparkle with delight as she whispers something to Margerie.

At the Diorama of Their Majesties, Monique links elbow-to-hand with Mae, and together they make their way to the next diorama, that of the Great Cathedral.

"It is a contest of sorts to see how quickly she can cause my blushes." Norwood is still smiling even if it is rueful. "Is the Count well?" There's a glance from Reigna back to the table where Kael remains.

Isolde tugs her fiance onto the floor, face lit up in a bright smile. Neither of them are the best dancers--Isolde's heels stepping light on poor Alistair's toes every few steps. But one thing is clear, they're absorbed in the slow, Lycene style dance and busy looking into eachother's eyes like silly, lovestruck teenagers.

Monique has left the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Gailin isnt the best dancer and he has a few misssteps but he smiles and laughs none the less. Helping to play off Titanias misssteps attempting to make it look like his bad dancing.

Monique has joined the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Mae has left the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Harlan listens to the whisper, dipping his head down to make it easier for Aeryn to reach. Her head's about at his shoulder normally, after all! He smiles, and leans in to whisper back lightly, moving easily and gracefully, almost without thought. The man can move, that's for sure!

Fairen has left the South End of the Great Oaken Table.

Grandt, House Leary man-at-arms leaves, following Fairen.

Ianna has left the South End of the Great Oaken Table.

Mae has joined the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Niccolo stops a waiter passing by and takes a glass of stone mountain. Moving further into the room, he notes several familiar faces, returning raised glasses with a light nod and smile of his own. Isolde receives a particular smile, different than the rest, before he follows her gaze over to her table. For the moment, he seems content to watch her as she moves to dance with Alistair, his expression thoughtful — although unbetraying — as he regards the man.

Margerie looks over her shoulder at the tap on the shoulder and does her best 'charm them off their feet' smile, but there are some truths to be acknowledged. That she and Rinel are not adding to the glittering ambience with their dance skills? That's one of them. But gallant to the last, she offers her elbow to the girl and steers her towards the Shining Lands seating. "Well then let us correct that. Come meet people!"

Wash leads with elegants rather than force, giving Catalana's dress a bit of space as he dances. He moves with confidence born from years of events just like these with the same partner.

Reigna turns to look at Kael as Norwood mentions him and sends her husband a winning smile as she nods to the Sword of Artshall, "Kael is perfect. He really, really is."

There is likely some courting that Alistair forgot when he stole Isolde. Thankfully it seems the Lycene people aren't to keen on rules. How that is going to mesh with the practical personification of Compact Justice will remain to be seen. One of Alistair's arms is wrapped around Isolde's waist, the other claims her hand. Its practiced, as if to show he has been trying, but it is stiff. One can only civilize the barbarian to much. You're all lucky he can write! And read. Oh yes he can read. ...

Ashe checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 33 higher.

Rinel has joined the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Cristoph checked dexterity + athletics at difficulty 25, rolling 31 higher.

Rinel is steered toward an assembly of peers far above her in station, and while she flushes slightly--from the dance, perhaps?--she is all smiles.

Mae slides one hand through Monique's arm, then follows as the noblewoman leads her away. And yes, Mae shimmers and glitters all the way! But she does not jingle. No jingle boots tonight.


Aeryn relaxes a bit with a laugh, nodding, murmuring something back and keeps light on her toes and doesn't even trip on the swath of fabric that's draped over her shoulder and trails behind her. Not yet anyway.

Sorrel might be wearing magic shoes. They do perfectly match her green dress with little sorrel leaves all over it, just like her name, and she spins with aplomb, leading Silvio so that she walks backwards and he walks forwards. It's a fantastic illusion of one dancer making her way perfectly while her partner can only try to keep up.

Leona dances with Ashe, talking to her quietly as they make their way around the floor. The Lord Commander seems absent tonight, replaced by a relaxed woman who seems to know how to carry herself like a civilized former-Princess. Maybe not all those deportment lessons went completely to waste!


Cassima may have stumbled at the begining, but as Caith steers her in the right direction, the woman finally seems to find a touch of her grace, and as they spin around each other she moves with the grace expected of one of her station, and not an ounce more. They turn, and spin in the other direction. She's glaring mischeviously across the way to her sister. "How've you managed this? I was sure we'd be removed after the very first turn."


Aiden keeps his eyes just briefly over his shoulder to check when they need to move and turn, saying to his sister, "I feel like this is the closest I'll ever get to flying." He looks sad about that and then keeps Ailys with him, his steps managing to make them both look as if they were gliding and prancing where they needed too. He spots Cristoph in the crowd, the Duke dancing with Nicia, ushering the pair as they whisk by, "The pair of you look marvelous! It's good to see you again Duke Cristoph.. and Duchess Nicia!"

If it were any other event, Saedrus' eyes might be solely on Corban as the Judge; and probably a good chance the Whisper had as much of a competitive streak as Aleksei. As it stands though those evergreen eyes are only on the man he's dancing with. Whether he's leading the dance or not is hard to tell, they certainly seem an elegant duo, the courtier just seems happily lost to the melody as if there were the only ones on the dance floor.

Felicia's not a twirler, though at least she manages to keep the arm with the decorative pauldron to herself and her feet off of Eleanor's toes. Someone, at least, has attempted to teach the redhead to dance, but discomfort and unfamiliarity with the song no doubt shows as she carefully twirls the shorter guard around and carefully tries to manage not crashing into anyone else given her 'wrecking ball' moniker,"What, you're not just using our brawl drills? I figured that's what we were doing here." she jokes with a broad grin at her partner.

Sadly their love can only carry them so far. Alistair probably manages a wince once or twice when Isolde steps between his toes, but she is light enough he doesn't seem to mind. He has a bit on her in the height and weight department. When the judges call them out the man lets out a short little laugh. He looks down to the woman, "Well. Lasted longer then I expected." he states as he leans down for a kiss before they are pulled off the dance floor.

"I /told/ yyou," Caith laughs as she twirls and spins with her sister on the dancefloor. "It's all in the hips. See? Aren't you having fun?"

That'll teach her to stare at her husband while dancing with someone else! Reigna gets thoroughly distracted and almost trips on her dress when she stares a *little* too long at Count Kael. She blushes as she staggers, though Norwood keeps her from embarrassing herself too much. She laughs, a bright, amused thing, capable of giggling at herself, "I'm sorry Sir Norwood!"

Marcos continues to dance with Luctia, glancing about them as they move and studying the others around them dancing. He grins at his dance partner. "I'd think I'd fel more comfortable with a simpler dance but you make it look easy."

It was then she'd look over to him and blushed as she put her face against his. Catalana let out a chuckle as she murmured something to him quietly.

"My lord and lady." A normal introduction is almost meek for Ailys, but she smiles as her brother outdoes her dancing -- clearly happy to see his revelry on this night. "I trust you're faring well?"

Nicia glances over at Aiden when he greets them, offering him a smile, "Your Highness, it is good to see you again as well." She almost actually stops dancing, clearly unable to hold two conversations and dance at the same time, but she remembers to dance. Which really just translates to fumble around, stomping on toes and potentially elblowing nearby unlucky people.

Jordal, a bodyguard arrives, following Isabeau.

Returning the kiss, Isolde chuckles and walks off the floor with a smile on her face. "And we didn't fall over. That's the important part." The princess teases, gently steering Alistair over towards Niccolo. She leans in, whispering something to her dance partner as they wander back over to the tables.

Silvio gets moderately /better/, some of Sorrel's talent rubbing off on him and makes him more adventurous in his steps. He comes in close, even, and lifts her from the ground during a little hop, in an elegant excuse to hang onto her waist for a moment.

Wash is overheard praising Monique for: For a stellar eventt, incomparable.

As Silvio lifts her, Sorrel literally twirls in the air in some really spectacular gravity-defying dancing. She's really sort of amazing to watch. And she lands perfectly lightly on her feet, airy as a cloud.

Eshra is overheard praising Monique.

Harlan continues to dance with Aeryn, his movements very graceful. He's patient with Aeryn and having a quiet conversation with her. His Umbra cloak floats along behind him, his darker clothing in counterpoint to Aeryn's pearl.

"Thank you, your highness! Good to see you again too!" Cristoph calls out to Aiden as he and Nicia dance past. There's a bit of stumbling on both of their parts there as he catches himself from nearly tumbling into his wife. Then there's some bright laughter before he leans over to talk to her again.

Marian is overheard praising Monique for: I have never seen a party like this. You out did yourself.

Felix is overheard praising Monique.

Eshra is overheard praising Corban.

Lucita watches Marcos, timing her steps to his and as he learns the steps with the contest progressing, tries a few fancier movements. "This is fun."

Quenia seems to pour some wine for people at her table, says a few things, and then turns to watching the dancers. Even if she might have unvolunteered herself to dance, there is a sort of wistful look in her eyes. After all, she did purchase a lovely pink, glittery, flowery gown for the event.

Titania blushes looking to Gailin, "I am sorry love." she whispers softly to him and heads back to their table holding his hand to sit down again.

"My friend Esoka has been making me carry heavy barrels around," Eleanor tells Felicia, as though this is a perfectly reasonable response to the other knight's comment. She releases one hand and ducks under Felicia's arm for another twirl. Her skirt is admittedly very swirly, which may be why she's admiring it slightly more than watching where her feet go, but she manages to stay upright and reclaim Felicia's free hand. She seems pleased with herself, from her bright grin at her partner.

Monique is overheard praising Corban for: Great co-host!

Monique is overheard praising Ainsley for: Great co-host!

Monique is overheard praising Tikva for: Great co-host!

Aiden bobs his head to Nicia, though with the movement on the dance floor, it's exceptionally hard to keep pace of /any/ conversation other than the one that's held in your arms. That would be with Ailys, his sister, which he proudly steps along the floor with, "Imagine the look on Father's face." He winks at her, murmuring something lower as they seem to dance onward, nodding to Cristoph.

Ashe murmurs something to Leona with a soft laugh, though it seems her conversation is distracting her somewhat; she doesn't actually stumble, but she's going through the motions a bit more than her previous efforts. This, it seems, is enough to disqualify the duo; she offers Leona an apologetic smile as Corban shoos them off the dance floor.

Tikva is overheard praising Corban for: Fabulousest!

Isolde is overheard praising Corban.

Tikva is overheard praising Monique for: Splendiforousest!

Isolde is overheard praising Tikva.

Alistair is overheard praising Corban.


"If and when I am ever having fun, Caith Thrax," Cassima says in her mock lecturing voice. "I absolutely will not admit it to you. For your own sake, of course. I'm afraid you'd smile so much you'd break your face." Though she is grinning rather madly, a stark contrast from the severity of her garb.


Leona stumbles slightly at something Ashe says and just raises one eyebrow as she stops dead there on the dance floor. "Have you really," she comments, but then shakes herself and chuckles. "If you just wanted to sit back down, you could have said something." She chuckles again, leading Ashe back to the table and looking around for Mae.

Isolde is overheard praising Monique.

Tikva is overheard praising Ainsley for: Also pretty cute.

Marian is sitting on the couch, having a drink and watching the dancers with interest. She makes the idle comment here and there but is otherwise attentive to the activities. She sees the treats that Eirene is having and treats herself to some.

Isolde is overheard praising Ainsley.

Ainsley is overheard praising Tikva for: Prettiest Princess in ALL the LAND. ALL THE LANDS.

Ainsley is overheard praising Monique for: A great host!

Ainsley is overheard praising Corban for: Fantasty game-runner.

Reigna is overheard praising Monique for: Managing to outshine herself for a second time!

Marian is overheard praising Corban for: For being the man behind the scenes helping to get stuff done.

Vanora is overheard praising Corban for: Hosted a wonderful party

Vanora is overheard praising Margot for: Hosted a wonderful party

Quenia is overheard praising Monique for: What a great party!

Ailys is overheard praising Tikva for: Brilliant sister by marriage!

Reigna is overheard praising Corban for: You've got a great thing going!

That last stumble is what does it, and when they are tapped on the shoulder Nicia laughs, "We at least made it a few rounds this time." She ceases her attempts at dancing to look down at Cristoph's feet, then she starts to pull him back towards the table, murmuring something quietly to him.

Ailys is overheard praising Corban for: Awesomest host ever!

Quenia is overheard praising Corban for: What a great co-host!

Niccolo arches a dark brow as Isolde and Alistair make their way over toward him. Although his focus was on Alistair while the pair was dancing, his sole attention is on Isolde as they move closer. A light smile appears, “Better luck next perhaps.” He sets his glass on a nearby table and holds out his hands to his daughter for a brief embrace.

Before releasing her though, Norwood will whisper once more to Reigna, with a glance at Margerie as a hint.

Ailys is overheard praising Monique for: Hot Hostess!

Marcos laughs as Lucita easily outshines him. He does his best to make her look as good as possible and not trod apon her. "Estaban will be thrilled to hear you dance so well. If he doesn't know already. I'll have to remind him to brush up on his steps."

Mae spots Leona's return, and then she lifts a hand gives a small wave. A few words said to Monique, and then Mae's heading back towards Leona and Ashe.

Catalana is overheard praising Monique for: Such an amazing hostess and wonderful gala!

Aleksei is looking particularly enthused as more dancers get tapped out of the competition, giving Saedrus a DARING LITTLE TWIRL. Look at him go.

Ailys is overheard praising Ainsley for: Best biggest brother!

Eirene calls out to Aleksei and Saedrus, "NOW KISS," as she cackles, tinging her new ring alongside the edge of her glass to make a chiming bell sound.

Alistair was perhaps watching the other dancers get rounded off, or the hosts announcing who is proceeding to the next round. He doesn't immediately realize where Isolde is leading him off to until the High Inquisitor turns his intense gaze upon the father of the bride to be. Hello. I stole you daughter. He does not say. He gives another glance to Isolde. Traitor. "Archduke." Alistair remarks with an incline of his head as he allows Isolde to slip off.

Wash and Catalana hit their stride, adding a spin or two that twists the hem of her dress around his legs as he pulls her close. Then, with patience and care he extricates himself to the same rhythm spinning Catalana back out to arm's length.

Shard slips in. She looks...well, she looks pretty much as she always does. At least these are her /good/ leathers, but good grief. Any weapons are well peace-tied, or, if required, turned over. She's not exactly someone who's blending, however, as much as she might like to, by sheer virtue of her lack of glitter.

"Let's try a lift!" Caith laughs at her sister, backing up a little and gesturing to her sister to run at her. Uh-oh. This will end in either spectacular victory or tears...

Mae has left the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Did someone say kiss? Aleksei twists around, dipping Saedrus right over, and kisses him full on the mouth in as dramatic a fashion as he can manage.

Mae has joined the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Tikva calls, "WOO!"

Marian finishes her drink and tells Eirene frankly, "I'm sorry, but I am going to have to abandon you. It's getting late for me and frankly, a party is not really where I want to be considering the circumstances." She nods to the door, "I'm making my escape."

Marian has left the South End of the Great Oaken Table.

Saedrus can't help the warm, purring laugh that lifts as he's twirled about (so very daring) and drawn back close in the next moment. A hand drapes lose at the back of Aleksei's nape as they turn with graceful steps-- the sudden rose-pink colour coming up on the Whisper's pale cheeks? Blame Eirene! Next thing Saedrus knows the steps are getting changed and he's getting dipped back into a rather passionate kiss (completely with muffled squeal). DAMN IT EIRENE!

Sorrel is still dancing, and if anyone's surprised by this, they've never met the Bladesong. She laughs merrily and smiles charmingly at her dance partner, Silvio, whom she's trying very hard not to overwhelm.

Isabeau arrives after a time as such that must be a bit shy of fashionably late, but the wait was likely worthwhile in that she sweeps in wearing a beautiful blue seasilk gown decorated with a glittering white dragon that may just as well serve as a banner for House Valardin as anything found on the battlefield. Her blonde hair has been swept up and pinned prettily. Her first stop looks to be a visit with one of the hosts, Lady Monique Greenmarch, with whom the princess exchanges a fair few friendly words along with a small number of what must be economic writs. She takes pause, then, to take in the evening's entertainment of delightful dancers.

Ailys has joined the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

"Dancing with barrels, is that what you said?" Felicia grins at Eleanor. Others are getting bolder and trying to be more impressive. Eleanor has lovely swirly dress, even if Felicia's is more martial, but whether the redhead's decision to loft her own partner impulsively might be the end of their run, lift and pivot and whee! Hopefully with fewer couples of the floor there's less likelihood of someone winding up hurt.

Harlan continues to keep the dancing fairly simple for Aeryn's sake -- although as she gets more comfortable with things, he does elaborate a bit. After all, as stated, he is a very good dancer. He's honestly paying less attention to what's happening regarding the contest and just focusing on the dance itself.

Aiden laughs softly as they come to a very anti-climatic end, something of a swish and a sway, and they were off and on their way. Aiden draws his sister off, "Let's get a drink and join some of these tables. I'm sure they've seen enough of you to want to know more?" He lets his sister lead the way though, following behind with a flushed face.

"Next time." Isolde agrees with a chuckle. Briefly, she glances towards Alistair--something almost sympathetic in her eyes. Then, she's hugging her father and pressing the traditional kiss to either side of his cheeks. "Father, it's good to see you out and about." Her tone is gentle and warm. "I've missed seeing you smile." She then wraps an arm around Alistair's waist and smiles sheepishly. "You remember Alistair, right? We're getting married--I'm sure you've heard."

Aiden has joined the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Giggling a bit, Catalana would hold onto Wash tightly then. It was as if they were floating on air. But then again....they have been dancing together for years.

Silvio moves in a graceful circle, letting Sorrel dance around him like a ring of fabulousness. However, he also appears a little distracted as people start yelling about kissing, and then he sees one! WOO! That seems to /inspire/ him to do even better! "You are a marvel, my lady..." he praises and does not seem overwhelmed, calm, in fact.

Thesarin spots Shard making her way into the room, and lifts his cup in her direction, lifting his chin at her from his spot at the Assembly of Peers.

Ailys pouts like a child before wiping her brow and regaining your posture. "You're right. We got /that/ far, didn't we? Let's go meet some other folks," she smiles and takes his arm baring pearly white teeth before her fellow guests.

Eirene has caused some chaos. She is pleased. The Malvici raises her glass to the pair and winks. Her blue eyes glance at the Lycene Duke and his daughter and son-in-law-to-be and she hrms thoughtfully.


She sees him keeping it simple for her and raises him a spin, releasing his shoulder and parting as the dance floor becomes a bit sparser, spinning under his arm and landing back, in time, with her hand on his shoulder once more. See, Aeryn isn't doing /terribly/. Yet. Still a bit too reserved to do any lifts.


"No," Cassima says, her face dropping like a stone to a look of seriousness and, dare we say? Terror. "Caith, CAITH!" That last shout might be heard across the room as Caith leaps toward her sister. The takeoff is perfect. With some well placed hands, Caith could be soaring above the group like the most elegant of great birds, a flutter of fine fabric and a sparkle in her eyes as the belle of the ball.
That's not what happens. Instead, Cassima doesn't even attempt at a lift. When Caith leaps, Cassima gets her sister's bust right in her face, propelling her backwards in a flail of fine silk and limbs. There's a loud yelp, and the two girls end up in a pile of black silk on the floor. Cassima is flat on her back with Caith atop her.


Shard gives Thesarin a chin lift in return. To say she looks uncomfortable would be understating the matter by a very large margin. Her eyes, faintly narrowed, are everywhere however, seemingly trying to take in the entire room at once.

Tikva is overheard praising Caith for: Public courage!

Esoka points, proudly and encouragingly, to Eleanor when she hears her name. And also to support barrels as dance improvement tools.

Lucita watches as the dance floor thins round after round. She murmurs to her partner. "See, win or lose, dancing is fun and your ears don't get used as hand grips or we get half drowned when eliminated, We just get to take a bow or curtsy and get some of the wine. Thanks for dancing with me."

Tikva is overheard praising Cassima for: This seems like exactly the kind of thing that would happen to me.

"/Carrying/ barrels," Eleanor clarifies helpfully. There is no further clarifying information provided. Her own dancing remains steady if mediocre. The only thing fancy about it is her aforementioned swirly skirt, but she keeps her feet and doesn't trod on Felicia's either. "Did you - ooOOH!" Suddenly Eleanor is in the air! She clings to Felicia's arms, trusting the redhead to safely return her to the ground.

Harlan helps Aeryn with said spin, chuckling faintly, swinging her out so that she can get a good spin going. He then pulls her in, before swinging her back out for an even faster spin, just because?

When the ladies come crashing down, Silvio hoists Sorrel by her waist to avoid the collision and step-step-steps to a clear area so that the gals don't get trampled by his fabulous heels.

Aleksei does eventually let Saedrus back up, grinning wide and pressing in close as he stops being obnoxious. Because there is a /dance competition to win/.

Eirene has left the South End of the Great Oaken Table.

Swept up out of the kiss there is a careful turn, likely purposeful to cause a fan of white hair out about them as Saedrus and Aleksei move. "Aleksei Morgan," scorned without any real fire to his tone, "you are incorrigible." teased a little more lightly as they continue to move about the dancefloor-- close, deliberately so.

Eirene's got nobody left at her seat. Where to lurk now...

Monique has left the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Monique has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

"Thank you, your highness," Sorrel replies to Silvio as they continue to dance together, beaming at him and hopping out of the way of the crashing Thrax sisters. She dances like she wants to win, too.

Gwenna has left the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Gwenna has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

/here “I have only recently returned from Lenosia, for many reasons but your wedding is certainly at the top of the list.” Niccolo steps back to admire his daughter, before he fixes his gaze on Alistair. “Prince, if you please. My niece is the Archduchess, of course.” Obviously this would be a situation that no fiance would love — “bumping” into your future father-in-law, and the circumstances do not help. In situations such as these, Niccolo is perfectly at ease, expression carefully polite. “Perhaps you should take some dancing lessons before the wedding?” He suggests.

Eirene has joined the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Monique leaves the Great Cathedral Diorama with Gwenna, and the two head to the Assembly of Peers, the Greenmarch leaning in to murmur something to Gwenna along the way.

Marcos laughs and leads Lucita back to the table looking flush and delighted. "I'm afraid I've dragged you down. You're far lighter on your feet then you look."


Titania looks to Gailin smiling to him, leaning slightly into his side.

Wash leads Catalana off the dance floor in Monique's direction. "Lady Greenmarch. May I introduce you to my wife?" He asks, "I have another engagement to get to, but I hope that you know I enjoy any excuse to see her dressed like this."

Saedrus checked dexterity + performance at difficulty 15, rolling 47 higher.

Vanora slips away from the table for a moment or two, likely going to fetch more wine from wherever wine is fetched from. She passes Isolde and Niccolo and gives the first the traditional kiss on each cheek, and the second the same. "Isolde! Uncle Niccolo. Lovely to see you both here. I have to stalk wine with dancing and gossip because our Isolde has been stolen away and I can only claim her attention in these kinds of situations." A flash of a smile is offered to Alastair.

For a moment -- one glorious moment -- Caith is sailing through the air. You could say that she is having the TIME OF HER LIFE. That she's NEVER FELT THIS WAY BEFORE. And she's owes it all to..

"CASSIMA! CATCH!"

But maybe they should have, I dunno. Practiced this first or something. Because POW! Poor Cassima gets pretty much body-slammed by her younger sister and as they tumble to the floor in a heap, the older of the two Thraxian princesses no doubt is praying for the ground to yawn open and swallow her up. What a gala debut!

Caith, for her part, is still laughing and having a grand time. "Well, that did not go as I had hoped," she says, righting herself and offering Cassima a hand up. "Look how far we made it though! What fun!"

Aiden is overheard praising Saedrus for: Stunning display.

Gailin holds Titania cloae and kisses her head softly. "Well done my love."

Ainsley is overheard praising Cassima for: I needed that laugh.

Ainsley is overheard praising Caith for: Poetry in the air!

Ailys is overheard praising Aiden for: Best Bigger Brother

Aiden is overheard praising Aleksei for: Amazing dancers!

Felicia does manage to set Eleanor carefully back on her feet without immediate disaster, but still not sufficient to get them over the line. As her shoulder is tapped the redhead grins,"I guess that was taking it a bit far. But... you're a better dancer than you give yourself credit for. That was fun!" and elects to head back towards the diorama of their Majesties.

Alistair bows his head slightly as he is corrected as to Niccolo's title. The current Velenosa line is a bit convulted. He is certainly not helping with that most likely. "Dancing lessons... I believe would be a wise idea..." he agrees as he faces off against his future father in law. Isolde is lucky she doesn't have to meet Alistair's parents. What with them being savage likely cannibals! Vanora gets the man's typical intense look, a bow of his head in greeting.

Samantha is overheard praising Corban for: Wrangling the emcee job with precision!

Harlan tsks faintly as he's tapped on the shoulder, spinning Aeryn once more before moving to guide her back to where her brother and the others were. "You dance very nicely, Lady Aern." He smiles to her, offering his arm again.

Lucita claps for the winners. "Lovely display of skill and rhythm!"

Mae is overheard praising Saedrus for: Go Saedrus! Good putting up with Aleksei!

Once they arrived near Monique, Catalana would curtsey as she bowed her head. "A pleasure to meet you, Lady Greenmarch. Your event is a hit and I am so honored to be here." Standing back up she would then look to Wash with a chuckle. "All you have to do is ask. I'm sure we can find things for me to wear this gown to...."

Lookit that, there's only Sorrel and Silvio left on the dance floor with them-- when did that happen? Saedrus was a little busy getting dipped and smooched. When Corban moves to touch at Sorrel's shoulder the courtier blinks. Wait, we win?

Taking the opportunity while others are focued on that sweet dance move gone wrong, Lord-Magister Percephon Telmar sneaks out.

Percephon has left the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Ashe applauds, raising her voice to cheer for Saedrus and Aleksei's stunning performance.


For the record - Aeryn was /not/ doing badly and she did /not/ trip over her dress. Actually, the looked like they might have been going in for an attempt at something a little fancier when they are tapped and she makes a playfully pouty-frown face. "Oh well. That was a very lovely dance, Duke Ashford. Thank you." Her cheeks go a little rosy, shooting her brother a look. "I heard that! You totally jinxed me!" She calls out teasingly.

Eirene has left the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Khanne rises up from her seat in the quiet alcove, chuckling as she heads out of the gala herself.

Leona cheers as Saedrus and Aleksei win, clapping from the place where she sits comfortably chatting with her companions.

Khanne has left the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Drysi, a young shaman apprentice leaves, following Khanne.

"I admit I should have thought to send you a letter about the wedding." Isolde coughs, glancing sideways at Alistair. Thankfully Vanora arrives and Isolde lights up, latching on to a distraction. "You can come see me in private, Vanora." She chuckles, offering open arms to her friend for a quick hug. "Besides, Ford stole you away first, didn't he?" There is a note of disdain towards the Thrax Marquis. "You ought to let me steal you back."

Samantha lets out a very unladylike, "Wooooo!" at the announcement of a Saedreksi victory.

Gailin has joined the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Although they didn't quite win it, Sorrel and Silvio did make an amazing spontaneous team. When she is tapped out, she pauses to bow deeply to the pair who remains, clapping her hands in appreciation and giving them a delighted round of applause.


Cassima is sprawled on the floor, her hair slightly askew. Those curls will use any excuse to be free. She seems a little stunned, blinking and looking around. She's on the floor. Why's she here? Oh right. Because her sister's a nutjob. She looks, bewildered, up at Caith as a hand is offered. She takes it, and slowly rises, righting herself. All the attention seems to be on the winners for now, leaving Cassima's face to burn red hot in a private shame. She looks once at Caith and just shakes her head. A little smirk touches her lips, but damn does she fight to keep it at bay. "I am going to get you," she vows, moving to lean on her sister's arm.


Mae turns her attention back to the dance floor, to clap, and give a positivley unladylike "Wooowooo!" and then some snark about Saedrus being wonderful and Aleksei being present. Mae's attention goes back to those near her.

Eleanor's face is flushed, her grin bright, as Felicia sets her back on the ground. "Well done! You're quite good! And that lifting part was exciting!" Pushing up on her toes, she presses a light kiss to Felicia's cheek before tugging her arm, heading back to their table. "Let's go see what the Lord Commander's up to."

"Haha what?" For all the dancing and grinning competition, Aleksei looks caught off-guard by actually /winning/. "What! Shit! What do we win?!"

Silvio smiles serenely, with a glitter of his eyes towards Aleksei and Saedrus. His smile could not be /kinder/ and more /polite/. He effuses grace in losing as the Prince bows his head to the winners and his stare lingers upon them in praise. "Most excellent, what deserved win." Still holding Sorrel's hand, he then turns towards her and bends to kiss her hand, "And you were, of course, a shining star. The fault is entirely mine." Long curls sway. "Allow me to get you a drink, at least."

Eirene calls out, "Kiss him again, see, it was lucky!" She cackles loudly as she leaves her chair and starts to float around the room like white and gold flotsam.

Tikva calls, "And then kiss Eirene, next! Because why not?"

"I look forward to it," Caith replies to her sister's threat, her voice filled with affection. She presses a kiss against Cassima's cheek and leads her back to their table. Poor nerd deserves some sit-down time after being terrorized on the dancefloor.

To Sorrel and Silvio, once he'd brought the dance to close, Saedrus bows graciously. "You both are beautiful dancers, thank you for the challenge," he smiles, warm and genuine.

Vanora's green eyes brighten when Isolde offers that squeeze. "You did not tell him you were planning a wedding? Isolde!" The shock on her face is feigned for exaggeration. "Did he? I'm not sure. As for stealing me back..." The words are left to hang in the air. "Well, if anyone could do so it would be you my dear."

Niccolo is also momentarily distracted by Vanora, greeting her with a warm smile. “Enchanting, as always.” After a few moments though, his attention is back on Alistair. “A man of few words I see - I like that.” He flashes a brief smile — perhaps a bit intense. Looking back to Isolde, “It is fine. Word reached me, of course. You look well, and for that I am pleased.”

Lucita quietly pays her respects to the hosts and makes her way toward the entry.

"You guys were great! I mean, I didn't really see you, but clearly if you were still up--" But Aleksei is interrupted from complimenting Silvio and Sorrel by the renewed call from Eirene, and he has to obligingly dip Saedrus back over and kiss him again.

With the last tap on the shoulders, Lord Corban brings the game to a close. "Congratulations to our winners, the Archlector of Skald and a Whisper! A fine group to win. You receive a 5,000 silver writ to each Ferron Arms and Armor and Atelier Joscelin, to divide as you wish! We will begin the next game in a little bit, but do get a drink and enjoy. And if you'd like to purchase raffle tickets, they are still available!"

Thena has left the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Corban gets a writ for goods at Ferron Arms and Armor from EVERYTHING FOR GALA.

Corban gets favor d'Joscelin worth 5000 silver from EVERYTHING FOR GALA.


As Caith leads her back, Cassima shakes her head. She doesn't sit, and she doesn't stop fussing with her hair. She may as well just let it down, soon enough. It won't stay up there much longer. "I really oughtn't stay much longer. There's a charity event involving donkey races or some such silliness, and I had hopes of bringing some attention to a few things the Scholars are working on."


As for the alcove? They've been having a pretty quiet little chat. But Percephon and Khanne have slipped out somewhere in the midst of things, and now Thena has left the alcove, leaving a smaller table now. With Marcos and Lucita not having returned yet, Derovai, Wynna, and Quenia remain the only three still seated there.

Wash bows to the Lady of the night and leads Catalana to the door.

"You won!" Sorrel tells Aleksei with a beaming smile, her mood hardly dampened by the fact that she didn't win. "You did a fantastic job, and I think that kiss really sold it." She winks at the pair, then turns to her dancing partner. "A drink? I'd love a drink! We've done quite a lot of dancing."

Wash has left the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Monique smiles to Catalana, "Thank you so much! I'm glad you could come! It's lovely to meet you!" But then she's being led away.

Catalana has left the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Shard continues stalking in and out of the crowds, staring at people and decorations and everything inbetween. Her shoulders are ever so faintly hunched, and she seems mostly focused on keeping out of the way.

Quenia watches as Lucita leaves the party, giving her a worried look. She lifts a questioning brow in Marcos's direction.

Eirene flips Tikva off with a smirk. "Who wouldn't want to be the meat in that sandwich, am I right?" She waggles her eyebrows a little.

Lucita has left the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

2 Igniseri scarlet phoenix guards leaves, following Lucita.

Mae gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

The line has been dismissed by Corban.

Saedrus is overheard praising Corban for: Games Master, possibly best there is.

Titania smiles at Gailin, "Thank you Love." she says softly her Ocean blue eyes looking aounf as she stays leaning into Gailin.

Saedrus is overheard praising Monique for: Always the exceptional Hostess

Writs of favor in hand, Aleksei tugs Saedrus back to the diorama of the Assembly of Peers, beaming all the while.

"Actions speak for themselves. Mostly." Which is possibly why this approaching wedding seems so sudden and out of the air to most who do not know Alistair or Isolde. "I believe Prince Talen mentioned going on a hunt some time in the future. Assuming this was not a plan to poison and or kill me, perhaps you could join us?" the High Inquisitor offers to Niccolo.

Saedrus thanks Corban with a graceful bow, "thank you for the prize, and of course, the Gala itself." But then he's getting tugged back off towards the diorama. He curls up into Aleksei's side looking terribly smitten and proud of the Archlector with a whispered something in Aleksei's ear.

Saedrus is overheard praising Ainsley for: Absolute charming! Host or not. Just charming.

Silvio gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Saedrus is overheard praising Aleksei for: The perfect partner in all things, dance among them.

Silvio gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Marcos has left the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Isabeau claps with enthusiasm for the winners (and runners-up) of the dance contest, slipping from the place where she had been standing such that she might be able to make a meandering approach toward Saedrus (and Aleksei) while wearing one of her warmest smiles.

Marcos has joined the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Shard has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Eirene settles into quiet 'I'm gonna brood' silence as she drinks more wine.

Silvio has joined the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

"Oh Talen most certainly intends to kill you." Isolde mutters, leaning against Alistair's side. With a wry smile, she'll nod to Niccolo and add, "You should accompany them. A bit of fresh air will do you good, father." There is an undertone of concern to her words, almost undetectable by anyone besides her family. To everyone else, she sounds chipper and cheery. "And if the three of you manage to actually catch something, we can have a dinner. Eat whatever squirrels you manage to find already dead."

Wynna has left the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Cassima has joined the line.

Quenia has joined the line.

Derovai has joined the line.

Aleksei has joined the line.

Isabeau has joined the line.

“One can never be too careful with southerners, so they say.” Niccolo remarks with a faint smile. “But please, do keep me informed and I would be happy to join. I suspect you must be something of a hunter?” A quirk of the bow, as he finds his whiskey glass again.

Quenia has left the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Felix has joined the line.

Quenia has joined the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Saedrus is a little distracted by those at the diorama, but with a fleeting glance over his shoulder he notes Isabeau's approach and greets the woman with a delicate bow. "Princess Isabeau, you look lovely this evening."


Cassima is about to sit with Caith again, but the announcement for "Wits and Wagers" catches her ears. That sounds an awful lot like thinking and math! She's intrigued. "I suppose I don't have to go quite yet..." she admits to Caith. "I'll be right back, darling, I just want to see what all this is about...."


Silvio has joined the line.

Eshra has joined the line.

Caith has joined the line.

Harlan has joined the line.

Derovai has left the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Marcos has left the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Isolde has joined the line.

Rinel picks up A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

Rinel drops A Chest with Tokens of Gild ii Please take only one ii.

The Marquessa Kennex adds her voice to Isolde's. "She's right, Uncle. You ought to get out, go riding, kill squirrels. Something outdoors and cheerful, on a beautful day." Vanora smiles warmly. She's family enough to notice the bits and pieces of the Mirrormask Princess' moods. "As for you and I, beloved, we should have that afternoon of drinking wine and catching up sooner than later, hmm?"

"Hunting? I haven't hunted in a decade and a half." Alistair rumbles out. He is as civilized as they come, considering he is the High Inquisitor of the Compact. "Not all barbarians have loin cloths and bows." He manages to deliver his dry joke giving a little shake of his head to Isolde as she comments on their catching of already dead squirrels. Sounds delicious.

Felicia has joined the line.

Leona has joined the line.

Reigna has joined the line.

Derovai gets up, moving from the alcove towards the gaming table, after murmuring something quietly to Quenia at his table. In fact, Quenia may well be accompanying him over that way...

Eleanor has joined the line.

Now Caith, she is good at dancing (and body-slamming her sister). Thinking and math? Noooooot so much. But she enjoys games and having fun and she will figure out a way to enjoy anything, even if it involves addition and subtraction and carrying the two and dividing by five and ..

She follows after Cassima once she's twittered a few brief words to the people at her table.

Felix has left the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Ailys has left the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

1 Grayson Guardsmen have been dismissed.

Monique steps away from her table briefly at the announcement of the next game, grinning. "And whoever wins Wits and Wagers, a game of my own creation, will win the grand pize: His Majesty, King Alaric, has agreed to paint your portrait... and I hear he's getting better at it!"

Margerie has joined the line.

Leona stops dead. Blinks. And sits back down.

Harlan moves to get a drink before heading to look over at the event.

Sorrel has joined the line.

Eshra has left the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

And then, Quenia is abruptly left with no one at her table, before she has a chance to answer a question posed to her. She looks a bit perplexed for the second time this evening, and then rises from the table herself to get into line for this new game.

Ailys has joined the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Isabeau turns her chin just so toward one shoulder as she receives the compliment from Saedrus and opens her arms to greet the man with a familiarity that likewise remains polite and proper. "You and the Archlector were truly marvelous to behold. I'm so glad that I arrived in time to see the finale. I'm not sure a princess could ask for a better blessed dancing master."

Quenia has left the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Mae laughs aloud, and then her laugh turns to a snort, and she quickly covers her mouth, eyes wide.

Mongoose arrives, following Joscelin.


When Caith appears again to play, Cassima grins over at the younger sister. "Perhaps he would be willing to paint someone else on the winner's request. I should very much like a portrait of you, you know." Or of them together! OMG!

Niccolo smiles over his glass as he finishes a drink, and then claps Talen on the shoulder. “Yes, of course. Forgive me. The Archduke Consort is an excellent hunter, I assure you.” He then glances to Vanora. “And perhaps we could do better than squirrels.” A puzzling glance is given to both women. “What is with all the concern for me “getting outside” and being “cheerful” ?”

Claps Alistair on the shoulder, that is.

Saedrus bows again, delicately before Isabeau. "You flatter me, your Highness, but it is kind of you to say. We have yet to pick up on those lesson though, from memory. You would like, I assume, to continue them?" asked as he gestures for Isabeau to join the diorama, Assembly of Peers.

Ashe has left the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Ashe has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Isabeau has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Niccolo has joined the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Isolde has left the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Isolde has joined the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Alistair has left the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Alistair has joined the North End of the Great Oaken Table.


Joscelin, pink-cheeked and out of breath, heads into Telmar Tower and to the Glitter Gala, dressed in gold and silver, revealed when she peels her lovely coat from her shoulders. She's here to observe, curious as to how her rings were taken, smiling to see so many people here.

Eirene has joined the line.

Corban has rolled 1 35-sided dice: 7

Ailys has left the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

1 Grayson Guardsmen have been dismissed.

Ailys has joined the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Tikva has rolled a critical success!
Tikva checked composure + empathy at difficulty 15, rolling 9 higher.

Monique has left the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Eirene goes to join the others for the fun of the gambling. Because it's GAMBLING. She grins and has her wine refilled. "Okay, let's throw down," she announces.

Monique has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Ainsley breaks away from his wife suddenly when he spots someone entering. Gently placing a hand on her shoulder, before heading over toward Joscelin. His hand going out to her elbow if allowed, murmuring low to her as he points her in the direction of the table with the diorama of the shining lands.

Monique has left the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Monique has joined the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Monique slips away from the diorama of the Assembly of Peers, and makes her way over to the Shining Lands!

Harlan has no problem gambling, especially now that he has a nice glass of alcohol with him. Women and drink, it's not a bad thing to have around, after all!

Joscelin looks up as she's approached, then to the diorama in question as Ainsley points it out. Her eyes get misty and she presses a hand to her lips, the woman deeply moved. She grips his other arm and squeezes gently, speaking quietly back to him.

Tikva gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Harlan gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Ainsley, if allowed, gives Joscelin a hug, before letting go. A smile is given and her murmurs quietly to her.

Silvio stands near to Sorrel, and he makes a rather large opening wager on himself! Apparently the man bad at dancing feels he might be better at dice! There's a decidely thoughtful and shrewd look about his smile and a slow wet of his lips as he views the other players.


Don't talk to Cassima now guys, she's super focused on the game. With the silver hidden in her hand, her rich green eyes dart across the table as different rolls are made. Even her blush has faded as she becomes hyper-focused on probabilities and statistics. If this were a card game, you bet your ass she'd be counting 'em.


Caith, on the other hand, has no idea what she is doing. But! Does she care? Nah. She's just here for a good time, y'all, and to make sure her sister as fun. So she's laughing and betting and egging her sister on. Use that noggin, Cassima! Make that big ol' nerd brain work! Werk it!

Quenia rolls the dice when it's her turn, and seems pretty happy with the results. She grins brightly.

Joscelin has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Gailin has left the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Derovai tosses his dice pretty confidently. Maybe slightly drunkenly. But at least his gloves are a bit different from those others might have seen him wearing: not the obviously well-worn leather ones, but new silk ones, without a thread out of place. His jaw is drawn tight, and his gaze is intent on the rolls. Quenia, whom he'd left the alcove with, earns a little nod at her success.

Lord Corban walks the room along with his assistants, checking the dice and nodding as, it seems, Gild smiles on each of his players. Looking down at the scroll that his military aide, Captain Reedy, has been keeping, he calls out:

"After round one, we have:

Cassima: 120 silver
Quenia: 150 silver
Derovai: 200 silver
Aleksei: 200 silver
Isabeau: 150 silver
Felix: 125 silver
Silvio: 150 silver
Ehsra: 125 silver
Caith: 120 silver
Harlan: 140 silver
Isolde: 200 silver
Felicia: 135 silver
Reigna: 145 silver
Eleanor: 105 silver
Margerie: 170 silver
Sorrel: 110 silver
Eirene: 150 silver."

Aleksei handles his dice with the careless manner of someone who's used to winning at games of chance.

Eshra bites her lip as she rolls the dice, brows arching with a small bump against Felix when the roll goes her way, her dark eyes finding Derovai and wrinkling her nose at him.

Isabeau settles into the game of wits and wagers along with the rest of the players. At the first bid, she makes a wager of half her silver... which pays off. Her stack of coins now comes in at 150. She cannot help but spare Aleksei a slightly sidelong smile, however, when she spies that the Archlector has doubled his pot.

Harlan looks over as the count is announced and shakes his head, "Well, it looks like you have to bet big to win." He smirks faintly and shrugs, taking a drink and leaning in towards the dice.

Felix chuckles, and makes his own roll after. Not at all displeased, the smith looks like he's more reliant on luck and just enjoying the gathering itself at this point. A bit more relaxed after a drink or two.

Eirene needs a smoke and she'd be the happiest person here. Gambling. Liquor. A wall of eye candy, and yes, she's looking. The Malvici woman wins a fair amount and pushes almost as much back into the pot. "Come on, momma needs a new diamondplate scalpel..."

Corban has rolled 1 35-sided dice: 16

Gwenna has left the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Thesarin gets a gold ring set with a large duskstone from a small ring box.

"Well now you have. Her Highness is my cousin and my dearest friend since we were girls." She gestures to Isolde. "Alastair is her husband-to-be and a man of mystery. Prince Niccolo is her father and thus my uncle. So they say." There's something in her voice that is less playful, too subtle likely to catch.

That was my cat deciding my pose was ready. It wasn't. But I don't want to upset her.

Ailys has left the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Leona looks over at Vanora as the woman starts being very, very specific about the group with which she's speaking. That gaze is level, steady - but slowly one eyebrow raises as she just watches Isolde, and Alistair, and Niccolo.

Silvio looks across the table at Aleksei, and his bidding, and /winning/. He blinks his dark eyes slowly. "I do not believe we've /met/. I am Prince Silvio Velenosa." He bows his head, faintly at his own introduction, a soft and amiable smile on his pink lips. His free hand that is not molesting his dice reaches up to brush some imaginary dust off his glittery, long vest.

Yawning, Princess Ailys flashes a dazzling smile before she returns to her guardsmen who soon escort her back to her home estate.

After the first round, Princess Isabeau takes a page out of Aleksei's book and wagers her entire stack of silver... to her favor! Of course, while she may well have now 300 silver for her share, she is not in the lead by the least.

Harlan follows the lead of the people who bet it all, and does the same --- unfortunately for his luck. He laughs, though, and stands to head back to his table, snagging a bottle of wine first.

Meanwhile, Lord Corban walks the tables again, pleased as he tallies up the scores. And he announces:

"At the end of Round 2, we have!

Cassima: 220 silver
Quenia: 275 silver
Derovai: 400 silver.
Aleksei: 400 silver.
Isabeau: 300 silver.
Felix: 175 silver.
Silvio: 290 silver.
Eshra: 225 silver
Caith: 170 silver.
Harlan: 0 silver.
Isolde: 400 silver.
Felicia: 205 silver.
Reigna: 245 silver.
Eleanor: 75 silver.
Margerie: 290 silver
Sorrel: 20 silver.
Eirene: 275 silver."

"For our next round, we will /double/ the needed score, whatever turns up on the die, so bet carefully!"

Eshra tosses her second set of dice, the prodigal laughing softly with a shake of her head that sends the tiny bells woven in her hair singing as she shoots an amused look to Derovai before leaning in to whisper to Felix.

Aleksei looks up from his careless bidding and easy winning to blink over at Silvio. "Oh! Hello. Aleksei Morgan, Archlector of Skald."

Margerie is still making conversation at her table. The choices for how much to wager? As yet always a bit over half, as yet the stack returns and brings some of its friends. Between formal rolls, she fidgets with the dice. Whatever she's just brought up at the table, though? It leaves her animated and singsongy as she chatters away.

Mae must be telling a fish tale to the women gathered about her, because both her hands go into the air and she holds them wide. No, wide. Wider, wider. It was /really/ big. Whatever it was...

Quenia tosses her dice once more, and then and is pleased she is still in the running, even if she's not ahead. She gives those who are losing money sympathetic looks.

Monique has left the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Monique has joined the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Thesarin puts a gold ring set with a large duskstone in a small ring box.

Derovai shrugs at Eshra, as he's steadily accumulating his own little pile of winnings, gloved hands scraping quite a fair bit of the silver towards himself. He's silent, and only places a finger to his lips to shush Eshra's bell-adorned hair, looking to her and Felix as he awaits the third round.

"Oh that's right. I'd forgotten that Ford studied with you in the Lyceum. It's almost amusing considering. If I'd spent more time in Lenosia as a girl, we'd have met then, rather than a handful of years ago." The Marquessa Kennex muses to her cousins-by-marriage and her just-regular-cousins. "You aren't going along are you? A hunt could be fun, though if we join it might lose its purpose."

Eirene tosses out even more money onto the pot, almost her entire hand. She keeps a little just in case. JUST in case. The Malvici woman's wine rarely leaves her hand- a funcitonal lush.

Corban has rolled 1 35-sided dice: 32

Aiden has left the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Aidenly abruptly stands up from the table and moves to find his brother...

Aiden has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Quenia tosses her dice one final time, but is certain she's lost - based on the way she walks away from the table!

Felix gives Eshra a little nudge - after she's tossed her dice, but knows, as soon as he rolls his own, that he's well under the needed mark. A snap of fingers, and a good natured shrug, before he hands them off to the next to be tossed.

Eshra tosses the dice down the table giving a little sigh at the way they land but glancing up to Felix beside her. "Well that was... fun." chuckles.

Now that she knows she's out of the game, Quenia turns to regard the tables, and where she next wants to socialize, possibly.

Caith is busy chit-chatting with Sorrel and is hardly paying attention to what she is doing. "Oh, that is adorable!" It's not so much of an intentional dice roll as a hand-gesture gone awry but the dice? They go flying and well .. it doesn't turn out well for our Thraxian princess. Ah well! Her lips quirk into an crooked smile and she wrinkles up her nose:

"Oops."

Aiden has left the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Aiden has joined the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Aleksei looks a bit more interested when the next difficulty comes up so high, straightening in his seat a little, and then he rolls -- and cackles aloud when he wins.

Silvio cooly loses his 'all-in' bet and draws in a slow, deep breath. A calm smile plays across his face as he awaits the final results of the game. "It seems it is quite the evening for you, Aleksei Morgan."

Aiden pats his brother's shoulder then proceeds to dart around the tables, until he spots someone else who... he slides up to and whispers at.

"Well," says Lord Corban as the game comes to a close, not even really bothering to do final standings. "It appears that our winner, again, is ALEKSEI MORGAN, the Archlector of Skald. Congratulations, Archlector."

Overstuffed with confidence, Princess Isabeau places all 300 coins on the line and... loses. Bigly. All of it. Gone. This was likely not an unexpected outcome, however, as the Valardin princess only musters a feigned pout that may still read as pretty.

Eirene's dice suck! Her hands are on her hips as Aleksei wins and she gives him the 'really' look. Disbelief and annoyance. "Really," she says, verbalizing what her face screams. "Really... You better donate that damn thing to the Faith because that's clearly a divine fucking intervention."

Derovai pushes the whole pile of silver back into the center of the table, with a little shrug. He shoots Aleksei a quick look, something a bit sharp in it, but throws the dice. And that'll teach him to play in a bad mood, because the dice, which have been rolling well for him, decide just now to not work out that way. His stare at Aleksei darkens a little at the cackle, and he scrapes his chair back, leaving the table without a single world -- even for Eshra and Felix.

Monique applauds for Aleksei's win, boisterously. "Oh, to be a fly on that wall! I'd love to see the King painting the Archlector!"


The game over, Cassima stands up straight and moves to find her sister, sliding an arm in with the other girl and kissing her cheek fondly. "Why can't your fun be more like that, sister mine?" Math, Caith. You need to make fun more math-friendly.


Saedrus perks from conversation-- or wait, he's fussing over Tikva again. Aleksei won? "So I will be adding another to the collection.." said a little more loudly than the thought-to-mouth was intended.

"Wait... Aleksei won?" Mae asks, blinking as she looks around. "Oh, I hope it's not another /nude/ Aleksei painting..." Mae says, probably totally accidentally too loud.

Saedrus cuts Mae a quick look.

"Donate what?" Aleksei cackles at Eirene. "The portrait by His Majesty?" He rises from his seat, stretching his arms up overhead, looking positively smug.

Sorrel calls across the room brightly to Mae, "How many nude Aleksei paintings are there already? Is there a gallery?"

Joscelin looks up. Aleksei, -nude-?

Felicia applauds Aleksei's win from her spot, though at least her commentary of,"Remind me never to gamble with that man." is at least at a more reasonable volume.

Mae ducks behind Leona. She's not here!

Holden looks over toward Mae, and then Sorrel, and then Aleksei. One brow raises. Then he shakes his head, nope. He does not want to know.

Eirene cackles. "YES! Make the king paint him nude. That'll go a long way for diplomatic relations between the faith and the crown," she says as she slaps her hand on the gambling table.

Quenia has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Drysi, a young shaman apprentice arrives, following Khanne.

"I think three?" Aleksei calls back to Sorrel. "One of them's a drawing, though, not a painting. And one of the paintings is only a /partial/ nude." He grins wide and rakish. "I'm a great subject!" He strides right on back over to the Assembly of Peers diorama.

Silvio leaves the table as well, though he follows after Derovai curiously.

"Aleksei Morgan!" Saedrus yelps from his place.

Harlan has left the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Ainsley hops up suddenly from his place because his wife is SHOUTING at him... also he looks like he might explode suddenly. Bouncing from foot to foot as he makes his way toward the table covered with cloth, grinning like a fucking idiot. One hand goes toward the table cloth and is there... iron and wood underneath it? It's not moved enough to really see what's under it.

Eshra watches Derovai push away from the table in a huff and arches a brow, before turning to Felix and sliding her arm through his. "A drink or go see if he is going to start chewing on the walls??

Ainsley has left the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Once the game closes, he makes his way back to the head of the floor, where the stairs are, stepping onto them and ushering Monique over to this side, looking to wrap his arm around her waist when she does. And then he nods over to Ainsley and Tikva.

Monique has left the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Joscelin is set to coughing.

Esoka checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 30, rolling 11 lower.

Derovai draws up to Aleksei quickly, murmuring something to him before starting to slink away again. Back to the alcove to get drunk, it seems. He reaches for his bottle of wine, pouring himself a stiff drink.

Aeryn's attention is pulled from the table and looks up to what's going on with her bright eyes, brows furrowing a little.

Esoka just bursts out in loud, barking laughs at something-or-other said at her table, shaking her curly head. She'll need a moment.

Felix watches Derovai leave as well, blinking at the more angry response - though with Aleksei's own behavior, perhaps he's not entirely to blame. The arm linking through his gets his attention, however, turning to listen before considering. "A drink, I think the raffle is to be in short order.." though he watches Derovai and Aleksei as if, perhaps, thinking it might become part of the night's .. entertainment, until they separate once more.

Aiden looks up to follow the movements, taking note of his brother's antics with a faint grin.

Harlan stands up from his table, looking around briefly, before picking up his bottle of wine and moving towards the Great Cathedral.

Harlan has joined the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Derovai has joined the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Strolling back to their table with Cassima and Sorrel, Caith gives her sister's hand a yes-yes-of-course placating pat when she starts to spout off about /math/ being /fun/ while answering Sorrel. "I wouldn't say I have the best voice but I am decent and I do so enjoy it. I am very interested in this Choi-.."

Record-scratch moment: nude painting whatnow?

She blinks -- wide-eyed -- and looks from Sorrel to Aleksei. She looks him over. Up and down and up again. Maybe lingering in the middle a little bit because .. well, nevermind. What a day this has been! First she learned a new word (that word being 'fuck' for those watching at home) and now this! Nude paintings!

She grins widely and laughs. Bright, merry and utterly charmed to her toes.

Monique moves alongside Corban, the smile on her face couldn't possibly be any wider. She watches as Ainsley leaps up to the covered table, and laughs.

Aleksei's brows lift at whatever Derovai strides over to whisper to him, and his gaze tracks him back for a moment before returning to whatever's going on with the hosts.

Eshra has joined the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Despite all the talk of nude-Alekseis, Saedrus' attention drifts from the Archlector to the Hosts and Hostess, primarily Ainsley as he bounds about.

Felix has joined the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

"Ladies and gentlemen! Everyone! I hope you have been enjoying the party, the wine, the spectacle! But we have one more TREMENDOUS surprise for everyone this evening." Tikva rises from her seat, her voice pitched to carry to every corner of the room like a bard pitching her story for the grand stage. "If we could steal your attention for just one moment. You see, this Gala has been very special to all of us, but there's a real reason that it's super, especially grand and special!"

Aglitter in green and sparkles as they move to the covered cloth table, Tikva beams at this grinning, bouncy version of her husband, and reaches to take hold of the cloth on her side of it. "FOR YOU SEE. TONIGHT IS MORE THAN JUST A GLORIOUS, GLAMOROUS, GLITTERING GALA."

Silvio has left the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Silvio has joined the A stone alcove with a fireplace and chairs.

Margerie calls out, "And gleeful! There may also be some glimmering happening." She looks at Cristoph and adds more quietly, "And if we're not careful perhaps a little glowering."

Corban drops The Secret Matrimony, Made of Iron and Wood.

Eirene uh-ohs. "And now we get the bill. Great." She stands up from her seat, a bit carefully as if nursing an injury, and eyes Tikva.

Ainsley doesn't make any speech because it's TOO DAMNED excited! He grabs the side of his cloth and jerks as hard as he can. Trusting that Tikva's strength will be enough so that the cloth TEARS IN HALF...

And inside there is a DIORAMA of the TELMAR WAR ROOM with CORBAN AND MONIQUE BEING MARRIED?!!

Shard eyes the very, /very/ excited hosts with something not entirely approaching alarm, but perhaps a distant cousin of it. She looks extremely dubious. Up until the reveal, anyway, in which nothing actually explodes. And then she somewhat relaxes.

Aeryn can be heard stiffling a squeal when she sees it and begins clapping /furiously/! "OH CONGRATULATIONSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!"

Sorrel squeals very loudly, "YOU GOT MARRIED?!"

Joscelin doesn't look surprised at all, grinning at Corban.

Samantha cheers, standing in her seat and applauding. "Well done, well done!"

Quenia grins at both Corban and Monique, and claps before she calls out. "Congratulations!"

Sorrel is overheard praising Corban.

Sorrel is overheard praising Monique.

Delilah lifts to her feet and cheers. "Congratulations!"

"Hey Corban! Thanks for telling me!" Cristoph calls over to the other man from across the room. Of course right after that, he adds on: "And congratulations!"

Quenia is overheard praising Ainsley for: You reveal surprises wonderfully!

Quenia is overheard praising Tikva for: You reveal surprises wonderfully!

Joscelin is overheard praising Monique for: Congratulations!

Aleksei startles a bit at the sudden reveal. He, in contrast to everyone else, looks suddenly anxious. "Oh, Orazio's not going to like this--"

Derovai calls out from the alcove, "I already guessed it a few days ago. If anyone's counting." He tips back a large sip of wine, raking a hand through his hair, and then turns back to whatever he's telling Felix and Eshra.

Margerie leans back against the Chair of Not Having to Sit down and claps a hand over her heart. "Oh thank goodness, I thought for a moment someone else had had twins!" Pause! "OH! Congratulations! I know just what to send you for your first anniversary!"

Having slipped back into the Gala, quietly, just in time it seems for the big announcement, Khanne applauds for the newly married couple, though she also does not seem overly surprised.

Eirene's confusion is visible on her face and echoed in her voice. "Oh so this was a big ass wedding reception? Whatever." She doesn't seem impressed. The Lycene woman claps in bored way. "What's the big fucking deal?"

Saedrus chortles, lifting to his feet beside Aleksei to applaud. "Congratulations to the charming couple," he leans a little to the Archlector's side, "it is about time too."

Silvio claps for the wedding announcement. Sort of. He pats his free hand against his leg while his other hand holds a glass of wine. He lifts it in a toast though.

Mae is wholly happy for a distraction! And a big one! She claps for the pair.

Felicia's a little distracted, but claps along with the others when the diorama is revealed, most of her attention on her table companions with a vaguely concerned kind of look.

Aiden adds his applause to the crowd!

Shard seems to remember to clap, it just takes her a few moments. Maybe more than a few.

Reigna whistles in a particularly piercing way that seems at odds with her general demeanor, and follows it with an equally loud "Wooo! Congratulations!"

As the cloth is torn off the final diorama, revealing the wedding of Lord Corban and Lady Monique, Corban pauses, waiting for any reaction to pass. And once it has, he looks fondly down at the former Greenmarcher next to him and then at the crowd.

"Many know Lady Monique and I as those who run the fancy parties. But we have found we are partners in every sense of the word. With the kind permission of the Marquis of Greenmarch and by contract between our families, we were wed in a private ceremony presided over by the Archscholar and solemnized by the Faith. And then we thought: Wedding receptions are often so stuffy and formal. So we say this: Rather than inviting you to our reception, you have just been to it! We thank you for your prayers and kind wishes. And thank you all for joining us on this even-more special night."

Clapping politely, Isolde gives the new couple a bright smile.

Thesarin just nods, with slightly less of a frown than usual.

Isabeau finds her feet swiftly and claps with polite enthusiasm for the revelation of secret marriage now made public... of Corban and Monique. Indeed, the princess nearly slaps until she loses all feeling in her palms.

"That's right!" calls Tikva with a cackle of clear delight, "You have all been TRICKED into attending a wedding party. Please join me in congratulating House Telmar, and Lord Corban and Lady Monique, on their match!"

"Oh, thank the gods, I thought you /skipped submitting the contract/--" Aleksei rubs at his forehead, looking distinctly relieved. He murmurs something in a low voice to Saedrus before lifting his hands to offer his applause.

Aiden is overheard praising Monique for: As far as weddings receptions go, this one was fun. Congraluations.

Aiden is overheard praising Corban for: As far as weddings receptions go, this one was fun. Congraluations.

Leona looks over at Corban and Monique, and tilts her head thoughtfully. She catches Corban's eye and one eyebrow raises, but she claps with the rest, a smile on her lips.

Margerie is overheard praising Corban for: For not having twins, but still having a party!

Saedrus chortles brightly, leaning up to kiss at Aleksei's cheek.

Sorrel rises to her feet and walks over to Eirene, sizing her up. "Are you implying that the marriage of Lady Monique and Lord Corban is not worth a giant celebration? Are you that crass and senseless? How much have you had to drink? If you're going to be a giant bore, go home," she says furiously, green eyes flashing.

Samantha is overheard praising Monique for: What a unique and fantastic way to celebrate! Well crafted, milady!

Cristoph is overheard praising Corban for: Congratulations!

Kael has what is fondly referred to as 'Tournament Voice' for many things. This appears to be such a thing that requires Tournament Voice. Kael Keaton is rising up from his chair and cupping his hands to his mouth so that he can truly cheer. "Congratulations! To the Bride and Groom! Cheers to Lord Corban and Lady Monique!"

Cristoph is overheard praising Ainsley.

Margerie is overheard praising Monique for: A Glurprise for the ages!

Cristoph is overheard praising Tikva.

Aeryn is overheard praising Monique.

Cristoph is overheard praising Nicia.

Cristoph is overheard praising Monique.

Aeryn is overheard praising Corban.

Cristoph is overheard praising Corban.

Aeryn is overheard praising Tikva.

Niccolo is overheard praising Monique.

Niccolo is overheard praising Corban.

Aeryn is overheard praising Ainsley.

Niccolo is overheard praising Tikva.

Niccolo is overheard praising Ainsley.

Harlan is overheard praising Monique.

Harlan is overheard praising Corban.

Monique looks around, for the first time a bit overwhelmed and lost for words. She lets the moment sink over her, smiling. And then, "Thank you, all, and special thanks for Prince Ainsley and Princess Tikva for their unwavering support and for being such wonderful co-hosts! And now, we'll do the draw in celebration! I can't wait to see which of you is the lucky winner of the Pyreweave Boots!" She turns to a servant, who has brought a *very* large basket.

Niccolo has left the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Niccolo stands from his table at the news, clapping politely for the new couple. As the drawing begins, the Lenosian turns to make a quiet departure.

Ainsley has joined the The Secret Matrimony, Made of Iron and Wood.

Tikva has left the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Tikva has joined the The Secret Matrimony, Made of Iron and Wood.

Quenia grins once more at Monique and Corban, but that's all easily forgotten in the wake of the drawing - for the moment anyway! They have her undivided attention as she holds her tickets ready!

Aleksei is overheard praising Monique for: What a party!

Aleksei is overheard praising Corban for: What a party!

Holden is overheard praising Monique.

Holden is overheard praising Corban.

Monique has rolled 1 1011-sided dice: 721

Eirene gives Sorrel a 'who do you think you are' look. "No, I'm pissed I was invited to a party under false pretenses and wondering why the fuck you all give such a big deal over it. They got married. Big woopty fucking doo." She makes a twirling motion with her finger. "I wouldn't have come to a wedding reception for two people I barely fucking know. Surprised the hell out of me I got an invite in the first place to a New Years party." She pauses to listen to the announcement and shrugs at Sorrel. "I'm leaving anyhow since i lost, so fuck off and get that stick out of your ass. Go have a drink and lighten up."

Monique digs around in the bucket and comes up with a ticket number. "Number 721 is our lucky winner!"

Tikva has left the The Secret Matrimony, Made of Iron and Wood.

Tikva has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

"Hey, maybe leave a little faster if you're going to act like such an asshole?" Aleksei calls over to Eirene with an exasperated look. "I mean, fuck. /You/ lighten up."

Aiden has left the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

"I challenge you to a duel," Sorrel declares to Eirene. "You ungrateful, selfish, crude little twit. You impinge upon the honor of my friends, and you are an asshole. I am Lady Sorrel Wyrmguard, the Bladesong of Blancbier, and you, madam, are a miserable coward."

Ainsley has left the The Secret Matrimony, Made of Iron and Wood.

Ainsley has joined the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Alistair gives a polite little clap as the raffle is run and the luck falls upon a member of their table. Anyone who is yelling, or leaving, or otherwise, is ignored.

Isabeau has left the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

Aiden slips away when the shouting starts.

Ashe stares openly at Eirene's response, looking as though she can't quite believe what the Malvici woman said.

Leona laughs suddenly. "Don't hold back Sorrel," she calls. "Tell her how you really feel!" She doesn't seem to be sarcastic at all here.

Romina, a silent Mirrorguard agent leaves, following Niccolo.

Silvio looks totally thrilled that there's a little drama tonight too!

Isabeau gets Citrus Delight, a sparkling pale golden wine| from Igniseri Wine Table.

Jordal, a bodyguard leaves, following Isabeau.

Newly returned, and already entirely too busy for his own good, Marius, Marquis of Greenmarch, makes an appearance. Clad in greens and browns, the man isn't really dressed up for a party, but still, here he is. He makes his way around, nodding to some, smiling to others, offering a hand here or there.

Eirene checked composure + etiquette at difficulty 15, rolling 19 higher.

Khanne was applauding, but each clap gets slower as some tension and arguing is overheard. She looks over to those involved and stills her hands, watching.

Aeryn quietly rises from her table and slips away shortly after Aiden, waving goodbye Harlan on her way out, looking apologetic.

Aeryn has left the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Admist the drama, Delilah seems to have the winning ticket in her hand. She hops up onto her feet and blinks owlishly at Corban and Monique. "Oh... What? Thank you so much! And congratulations, too." The young Whitehawk lady scoots on up to the two, and likely out of her excitement, attempts to offer both Corban and Monique a big hug too.

Joscelin looks at Samantha. "Isn't drama at a wedding reception a lucky thing?"

Aleksei applauds aloud for Sorrel's challenge.

Joslyn wraps her arms around Delilah before she can properly escape, jumping up and down in a sudden burst of energy as she applauds for Delilah's victory. Of course than her eyes are brought around to Sorrel and Eirene, an eyebrow lifting curiously towards them.

"Lady Eirene," Saedrus steps up from his place, giving the woman a particular Look from where he stands. A hand reached for Aleksei's nearest elbow.

Tikva leans aside to send a folded piece of paper in the hand of a servant across the room to provide to Lady Sorrel, when she has a moment. Then she tilts back into the loop of her husband's arm and returns to her quiet conversation.

Monique leans over to give Delilah a big hug as she wins the boots. "I do hope you'll get good use out of them. Mistress Petal worked some considerable magic in their crafting!" She lifts a hand to wave to her older brother Marius as he pops in briefly.

Eirene holds up her hands in surrender. "I won't curse a wedding by calling for champions. I'm not THAT socially inept. And besides, that's a Lycene tradition." She gives Sorrel a scowl and glances at Aleksei. "I retrect my statement. Was a wonderful damn idea and one I can't use for my own upcoming wedding. So I wish the bride and groom all the luck in the world and apologize for insult I did. Call it drunken envy. I'll take my leave." She pulls off the ring she got in the blind grab and sets it, nicely, down on the gambling table. She says it with uncharacteristic sincerity.

Eirene drops an ornate pewter ring set with a glimmering peridot.

Corban seems surprised to be hugged, but allows it and returns it just so, and then smiles as he hands off the elegant pyreweave boots to the lucky Delilah. "Congratulations, my lady," says the Lord. "What a fine evening."

Derovai is busy drinking in the alcove, but even he notices the commotion between Eirene and Sorrel. Well, sort of. He doesn't look their way at all; he looks towards the door. And though the duel seems to abate, that still doesn't make him lose focus from the door.

Shard says, dryly, "I didn't hear a thing."

"COWARD!" Sorrel retorts, absolutely furious. "Groveling sniveling WORM! You are a waste of Magnata's air! If you will not call for a champion and give everyone IN THIS ROOM SATISFACTION, then be gone with you, and do not darken this place with your foulness any longer." She makes a shooing motion towards Eirene, like one might make towards an unwanted rat.

Vanora reaches out and squeezes Isolde's arm. "It's fine love." The words are murmured to the Princess as her eyes skim the room, settling finally on Alistair. "Mmmhmm, see?" She pulls back somewhat and returns to Valdemar on her other side with a smile. "There we have it. Tricked into a wedding party." She looks ready to rise to her feet and slip out too.

Nicia inclines her head towards those they had been sitting with, shooting a brief look towards the commotion before she tucks her arm through her husbands and begins to head towards the exit.

"A splendid evening," Delilah remarks with a silly little grin on her face. "I've made off like a bandit and I had literally no expectations when I came out here." There was some hesitation as she went to step away, clutching the boots close to herself. "They'll be put to wonderful use, definitely. Thank you and congratulations once again." She dipped her head and returned to her seat.

Nicia has left the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Cristoph has left the The Shining Lands, Made of Silver, Gold, and Glass.

Cristoph leaves, following Nicia.

Felicia calls out from her spot,"Congratulations, lady Whitehawk!" with a raise of her glass, a thoughtful look crossingher face momentarily.

Titania looks to Vanora, "I think I will be going." she says softly and nods to everyone there at teh table as she gets up to leave.

Samantha seems suprised when Sorrel continues to shout at Eirene. The apology should have ended the issue, and now the Wyrmguard has lost her moral high grund.

Mae watches the shouting and the cursing and the apology and all that. She smiles softly all the while. Her real attention turns to Delilah, who she waves at. "Good job, my lady!"

Quenia winces openly at the goings on, but keeps her voice low at the table.

Aleksei strides forward, looking a bit like he's feeling awkward at being the resident priest present. "Lady Sorrel, you called for satisfaction and she chose apology. It's totally within honor and protocol."

Well, there is a bit of a commotion, but Corban has an event to be the master of ceremonies of, and gosh darnit, he's going to keep at it. And so he keeps his voice up. "On behalf of Lady Monique Telmar." He looks over at his wife, seemingly pleased to say that out loud. "Prince Ainsley and Princess Tikva, we thank you all for coming. We also thank Atelier Joscelin for her work on the rings, Dame Ida for her contribution of a writ, Tailor Petal for her work on the boots, House Igniseri for its provision of magnificent sparkling wine, and Tailor Zalika who made Lady Monique and my outfits. The gods bless all of you and keep you. Happy New Year!"

The commotion draws Valdemar's attention away from the table he is sitting at for the first time in a while, interest shining in his eyes for a moment. Then Vanora makes her remark to him, and he lets out a low laugh. "Father /should/ have come," the Grimhall heir comments as he stands up as well, taking a short time to stretch before offering the Marquessa his arm and falling into step beside her.

Aneka, 3 Iron Guardsmen, Meeka arrive, following Merek.

Eirene shrugs, nonplussed. "Call me whatever you like. I was an asshole, you called me on it, I retracted. Isn't that the fucking point?" She just offers Sorrel a polite smile as she turns to go, not making any further ado.

Leona has left the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Monique adds, to Corban's sentiment, "May Gild light your way forward in this new year! And we thank you all for being a part of this special event." Is she looking a little disturbed at the commotion? Possibly. Her eyes definitely cut that way.

Sorrel takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly, turning to Aleksei and putting a stabilizing hand on his arm. "You're right," she says to the priest. "I'm letting my fury get the better of me now. I'm sorry." The apology is more to Aleksei and the room in general than anyone else.

Isolde has left the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Titania looks to Sorrel a wrinkle comes to her nose when she looks to Eirene and then back to Sorrel a look of disapoinment comes to her face shaking her head as she walks out.

Titania has left the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Vanora has left the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

Valdemar has left the North End of the Great Oaken Table.

4 Kennex corsairs, Serena, the charming Stormward lady-in-waiting leave, following Vanora.

3 Grimhall House Guards leaves, following Valdemar.

The High Inquisitor rises from his table, taking Isolde Velenosa's arm as they are set to leave. The man stops briefly to the new husband and wife, giving a bow and a nod to Monique and Corban. "Congratulations to the both of you. Apologies for any past wrongful accusations." He says with a look to Monique, and a soft smile touching his lips at his little joke.

Margerie moves away from her most treasured chair to better make room for the people departing from the table. As things continue to escalate? Well! Hard to try to look like she's not at least half paying attention to the fuss. Whatever comment she was about to add? It quiets itself for once, the better to listen to the names of the artisans that supported the evening. She adds a round of applause at the names. "Amazing work. To have these displays put together so swiftly..."

Leona stands up then, marching - well, as much marching as one can do in a gown - over to Sorrel. "Sorrel, might I have a brief moment of your time please?" It's pleasantly said and she murmurs quietly to Sorrel as soon as she's within earshot.

Aleksei draws up close to Sorrel and lowers his voice to continue speaking to her, offering her a small, wry smile.

As quietly as she returned, Khanne slips back out.

Quenia gives Monique a warm smile when Igniseri is mentioned, and also nods at Corban again. She then turns to her table, murmurs a few words, and then rises to leave.

Drysi, a young shaman apprentice leaves, following Khanne.

Felicia reaches out to give Eleanor's shoulder a squeeze,"I've got to try and catch Lady Whitehawk, though, shall I catch you back at the Tower?" she enquires of the Sergeant before adding a nod for Mae,"And it was good to see you again, too... I look forward to the next time we can all drink at the Murder."

Felicia has left the Their Majesties in the Garden, Made of Glass and Silk.

Reigna glances over towards Sorrel from her place at her table, a little frown tugging at the corners of her mouth before she looks back to those she is with, her arm linked through Kael's.

Merek walks into the Gala and has on his umbra shirt with the silver accents upon it, in addition to well-tailored pants. He hands off his weapons, then he takes his time to look around a bit, as if trying to find someone to talk with or chat up, as he adjusts the cloak which has a Hammer with Wings upon it. He notices that the general atmosphere seems different, so he moves to the side mostly.

Eleanor glances up at Felicia with a bright smile. "Yep. Have fun." She gives her a wave, and turns to regard Mae across the table. Her eyebrow lifts and she grins. "Well. Just us."

Quenia has left the Assembly of Peers, Made of Wood and Glass.

"If you've enjoyed the displays around the table seating this evening, look for a future dinner and auction to celebrate on the social calendar!" Tikva calls brightly. "And Happy New Year, all!"

Cassima has left the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

Caith has left the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

6 Thrax Guards leaves, following Caith.

Harlan has left the Great Cathedral in Glass and Stone.

4 Ashford House Guard leaves, following Harlan.

5 Thrax Guards, Bastian, the reformed rogue, Caith, Harlan leave, following Cassima.

And thus Margerie and Norwood follow, because forgot to pose that.